A trade union is organisation that brings together working people to form a collective voice that protects and advances their rights, terms, pay and conditions to create a better world of work. This is achieved through negotiations with employers, or through political campaigning and lobbying.
In places where a trade union is recognised, they can negotiate on behalf of the workforce for better pay as well as terms and conditions, including holidays or other workplace policies.
Because of the collective strength that unions have as large membership organisations, they have a powerful voice to lobby and campaign on the things that matter to their members at work, in their communities and beyond.
How do trade unions help at work?
On an individual level, trade unions can provide support to members who are facing difficulties at work such as bullying, redundancy, unfair dismissal, or poor treatment. You can find out more about the type of workplace support we offer here.
For some, union membership is like an insurance policy – something they hope to never need but essential when things go wrong. We recommend that everybody joins a trade union, to be ready for those occasions when you need one.
Common issues that trade unions deal with include:
- Allegations in the workplace
- Workload issues
- Target setting and appraisals
- Bullying and harassment
- Sickness and absence
- Pay and contractual issues
- Parental leave
- Redundancy
- Assault
Every single member’s case is unique, and we strive to ensure that our members receive bespoke support that is right for them.
Whatever the issue you may experience, it can be reassuring to know that help is only a phone call away. Our team of advisors and reps are on hand to leave you with the confidence and job security you deserve.
A union can also be a place of learning and development, as training well as a space to network and build connections with others. Members volunteer and train to support their colleagues, they contribute through discussion groups to shape the views and policies of their union, and they influence the representations made on their behalf.
Why should I join a trade union?
Trades unions have a long history of working to improve equality and diversity, health and safety, working conditions, pay and much more. This includes:
- The national minimum wage
- The two-day weekend
- Improved parental leave rights
- Protection for migrant workers
- Workplace equality legislation
- Abolition of child labour
- Improved safety procedures for workers
- Pension provisions
- Holiday and sickness entitlements and much more
These union successes have benefited every worker in the UK. As the world of work changes through the increased use of technology, health and safety concerns, and the transition to net–zero, it is more important than ever to be a member of a trade union to ensure that you have someone in your corner if something goes wrong.
In workplaces where the workforce are members of a union, they can benefit from the strength and security that comes from working together to tackle issues that arise at work.
What are the benefits of being a member of a trade union?
The benefits of being a member of a trade union are evident for all to see. If you are in a union, you are statistically proven to:
- Earn more! People who work at unionised workplaces earn on average 12% more than people working at non-unionised workplaces
- Have better working conditions
- Have better health and safety measures in place in your workplace. See more about our health and safety reps
- Have more training and learning opportunities to develop your skills and career
- Receive advice on your legal employment rights and support with issues at work
- Save money! We offer discounts at a range of high-street brands, websites and services
How do trade unions work?
Members pay a subscription fee toward their union, similar to what you might pay to join a gym or use a streaming service. Then, if an issue arises at work, no matter how big or small, or you require advice, you can contact your union and/or trade union rep for support.
Unfortunately, unions are unable to help (in most cases) with issues that arise prior to membership. That’s why it’s vital that you sign up to be a union member straight away, rather than leaving it until an issue arises and it is too late.
What are my rights with joining a trade union?
Individually, you have a right to:
- Choose to join or not join a specific union.
- Be a member of a union.
- Leave a union.
- Belong to the union you want to be a member of (even if it is not the one your employer negotiates with).
- Belong to multiple unions.
Your employer (or a potential employer) is legally forbidden from:
- Insisting you join or leave a specific union.
- Threatening or treat you unfairly for being part of a trade union.
- Refusing to employ you for being a member of a trade union.
- Dismissing or put you up for redundancy because of your union membership or for taking part in union activities.
- Refusing you opportunities because you are a member of a trade union.
Have a specific query about becoming a Community member or want to discuss our membership benefits in more detail? Contact us at help@community-tu.org.
© Community Trade Union 2024