Joining a union
Trade unions bring workers together to improve pay, conditions and treatment at work. Joining a union can give you support, advice and representation if you experience problems at work.
A trade union is an organisation made up of workers who join together to protect and improve their working conditions.
More than six million people in the UK belong to a trade union – from nurses to pilots, actors to lorry drivers.
Union members get together to talk about what’s going on – and any problems they are having. Common issues unions discuss are things like pay, unfair treatment, pensions, safety and more.
Unions can provide legal advice on employment issues.
They can support and represent you if you experience discrimination or unfair treatment.
They can attend meetings with your employer and may represent you at an employment tribunal.
Union members elect someone called a rep (or steward) who is usually a volunteer, to speak on their behalf. They help individuals and take comments and concerns to management.
Ask colleagues if there is an existing union at your workplace and find out who the rep is.
You can also use the TUC (Trades Union Congress) Union Finder Tool.
Your union will charge a union membership fee (‘membership sub’) to pay for the work of the union. This might be the same amount for all employees or based on how much you’re paid.
- speak to your trade union rep if you’re a member