A trade union representative (often called a "rep" or "steward") is a member of a trade union who is elected or appointed to represent and advise their colleagues at work.
They act as the primary link between Community, our members and the employer, ensuring workplace rights are respected.
There are a number of different Rep roles in trade union branches. Find out what each role specifically involves here.
Typical duties include:
- Attend meetings to discuss issues at work that affect you and your colleagues
- Get important information to your colleagues about the workplace
- Represent members who are in a disciplinary situation
- Negotiate and be part of consultation with your employer and management
- Represent members who are in a grievance situation
- Answer members' questions and concerns
- Recruit new members to join the union
- Ensure all of our existing members understand the value of union membership and stay with us
The process typically involves three steps:
- Membership: You must be a member of Community.
- Expression of interest: If you have a Branch Secretary, or representative(s) already, let them know you're interested. If you're not sure who your Branch Secretary or representatives are, or don't have any in your branch, contact your region, or fill out this form.
- Election/Appointment: Depending on the number of Community Reps in your branch, you will either be elected by members in your workplace via a ballot, or appointed by your region.
In the UK, union representatives are protected by law against detriment or dismissal because of their union involvement.
It is illegal for an employer to victimise or treat you unfairly because you are a rep, or because you carry out union activities.
Community is here to support you as a Rep in your workplace. We have a dedicated reps training team who are devoted to ensuring you have the skills, knowledge and guidance you need to succeed as a rep.
We run both face-to-face and virtual training on different topics to ensure you are competent in your role. We also have an exclusive area on our website just for Reps where you can find lots of e-learning and resources you need to help you in your role. As well as the reps training team, our regional offices are always on hand to support you in your role.
Being a Rep is a time commitment so it’s worth thinking about whether you are able to do it. However, in workplaces where Community recognised, you will be entitled to paid time off so you are able to support your members and receive training from the union, as well as attend appropriate events that will help you in your role.
The union’s Members Service Centre, reps training team and regional teams will be there to support and advise you every step of the way.
It’s also likely you’ll be part of a committee of union Reps who can work together to find solutions to any issues and to make your workplace the best it can be for you and your colleagues.
Yes. Under UK law, if Community is recognised by your employer, you have a statutory right to "reasonable" paid time off during working hours to carry out union duties and undergo training. This is often referred to as facility time.
No prior experience is necessary to become a Community Rep. What matters most is a passion for fairness and the ability to listen. Once you become a rep, our in-house reps training team will provide comprehensive training on employment law, grievance procedures, and negotiation skills to ensure you feel confident in your role.
Absolutely. Union representation is needed in all types of working arrangements. Remote and part-time workers often face unique challenges, making it even more important to have Community Reps who understand those perspectives.
Not necessarily. As a modern union, we prefer to work with good employers to better the workplaces and sectors we represent. Therefore, any good employer should see the benefit of having Community Reps on-site.
Reps help resolve disputes early, act as a professional point of contact for management, and facilitate smoother communication across the workforce, all of which benefit employers.
Yes, you can be a Community Rep in a workplace where Community does not yet have recognition, though you will not have statutory rights to take time off for union duties, or collective bargaining power. You can, however, accompany members to grievance/disciplinary meetings, and can organise to gain official recognition.
