Ian Malcolm-Walker, UNISON Steward and Disabled Members Officer of Bournemouth UNISON, passed away on 5th September 2023. David Higgins, former Bournemouth UNISON Branch Secretary, (retired March 2018), writes this tribute.

Ian Malcolm-Walker, what a man! I remember the first UNISON Branch Meeting I attended with Ian. We didn’t know what had hit us! Ian was like nothing else we had experienced before: he had so much energy and spirit to put the world to rights. But most of all he cared about those less able to help themselves and anyone who had been badly treated.

As a Steward and a Disabled Members Officer, he was excellent, advocating on behalf of our members. One of our Stewards, described him as a “warrior”. And he was, but one with a heart of gold and his compassion for others was something to behold.

Ian didn’t need a loudspeaker: his voice was as powerful as his spirit to do the right thing. And I know he made many a fine speech at UNISON’s Disabled Members’ Conference and was well regarded in UNISON at a national level.

They say that behind every great man is a great woman and in Hazel he found his ideal match, both having the same spirit, sense of humour and drive to help others. He was also very proud of his daughter Sophie and their grandson Paddy with his boundless energy. Our thoughts and condolences are with them at this very sad time. I only hope it is some small comfort to know how well he was regarded. Ian, you will never be forgotten by me or anyone who met you. Ian, R.I.P.

Pete Firmin, Vice-Chair of Brent Trades Council, adds:

Ian was an active member of the Labour Representation Committee for many years, always keen that we kept on top of developments in the Labour Party, unions, and, in particular, the campaigns of people with disabilities. Ian also had a long involvement with Labour Briefing, both as an Editorial Board member and contributor. His input will be sorely missed. The LRC will contribute to a fuller obituary later.

Ian’s funeral will be held at Bournemouth Crematorium, at 2pm. on Tuesday 26th September. If you can attend, please wear red. There will also be a webcast of the funeral. No flowers, but donations to the charity arm of the Dorset hospitals which looked after Ian so well can be made here.