NATIONAL UNION OF JOURNALISTS general secretary Michelle Stanistreet yesterday announced she was stepping down after 13 years in the role.

In an email to members, she said had been “dealing with some challenging health issues in the last few years,” adding: “The days when the role of union general secretary was a run-up to retirement are behind us.

“Every organisation needs creative change, and I think everyone in a leadership position knows when the time comes to move on.

“Throw in a landmark birthday, and for me the right time is now.”

Ms Stanistreet, who became the first woman to lead the union in 2011, said that she “certainly wouldn’t be the last.”

She said that she had “worked hard to ensure the NUJ can sustain itself as an independent trade union,” focusing on issues including “low pay, pay parity and journalists’ safety,” source protection, lawfare and safeguarding public service broadcasting.

An election for her replacement will be held.