UNISON recognises unsung heroes of society through hero figurines

Care workers, crossing wardens, librarians and refuse workers – they’re among the unsung heroes being celebrated in a new campaign for their vital role in Britain’s communities.

UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union (with 1.3 Million members), has unveiled four real-life neighbourhood stars as action figurines, recognising them for their tireless work delivering key local services that many take for granted or fail to notice.

Award-winning creative PR agency Taylor Herring devised and created the campaign – which will be activated across national, local and social media.

The exclusive superhero figures were created with advanced 3D printing technology in the exact likeness of four specially selected council workers from English and Welsh local authorities.

The collectibles come complete with fully moveable limbs, dressed in their work outfits and feature accessories that mimic the real-life tools of their trade.

Each limited-edition action figure is housed in an individually designed box featuring comic artwork bringing the character to life, based on the duties of each of the workers.

Taylor Herring teamed up with renowned Marvel artist Will Sliney to create the packaging and an accompanying cartoon strip detail how each of the workers – like so many council staff – are everyday heroes in their local authority areas.

Crossing warden Sandy Cox said: “It’s amazing to see myself in action hero form. The figures are so lifelike. Workers like me love what we do, and I’m so proud to make an important contribution to the community. “

UNISON hopes the creation of the action figures will encourage the public to think more about the vital role council workers play in their local communities and appreciate them more.

UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said: “Council staff are incredibly passionate about their roles at the heart of communities. But all too often their contributions are overlooked, which can be frustrating for key workers who just want to do all they can to help others. For many local authority employees, demands are increasing while council budgets are squeezed. Turning them into action heroes is a great way to put the focus on their superhuman efforts.”

Around 1.3 million people work in local government across England and Wales. Councils provide a vast range of services including planning, waste collection, environmental health, libraries, parks, youth work and social care.

UNISON’s four ‘everyday action hero’ figures are:

• Residential care worker Denise – dressed in her uniform and carrying a service tray
• Crossing warden Sandy head-to-toe in fluorescent colours, complete with the familiar ‘lollipop’ stop sign
• Librarian Emma accessorised with a trolley of books
• Refuse worker Richard equipped with a mini wheelie bin.

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