Trade Unions exist to protect the rights of their members in the workplace. The old fashioned image of trade unions only representing miners and manual workers is extremely out of date. Whatever your type of work, there will be a union that you can join, even if you are likely to change jobs frequently.

The strength of unions comes from the ability to bargain collectively for better working conditions, to keep an eye on whether your employer is complying with the law or not, challenging discrimination where it occurs and fighting for a safer, healthier working environment.

Employment law and discrimination law is extremely complex and not very many individuals know what all of their rights are or how to exercise their rights by themselves. Quite often employers themselves do not fully understand the law, or knowingly break the law and hope they won’t be caught out. Trade unions play a role in making sure this doesn’t happen.

Trade unions can represent members if they are facing being disciplined or dismissed, or if they wish to make a complaint or grievance against their employer. Always seek early advice from your trade union if you have any difficulties at work.

Even in organisations where there do not seem to be any problems, and your employers are good, it is still important to join a union. This helps you to make sure that good working practice stays in place and that if any changes occur in future, you can receive good support, advice and representation if necessary. The more people in your workplace who are members, the stronger your union will be.

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Trade Unions and Equality

Many trade unions have officials who deal specifically with equality issues. This includes producing guidance on how to tackle discrimination at work and how to promote equality and develop good practice. Union reps may also be able to negotiate for better conditions such as flexible working and family friendly policies, or improved equal opportunities policies. They can also represent and support you if you want to put forward a complaint or grievance about unfair treatment, discrimination or bullying.

Trade unions often run a number of campaigns around equality such as anti-racism and anti-BNP, equal pay, and awareness raising and promoting equality and fairness for all. There are also trade union networks and committees, for women, disabled people, black people, LGBT people and so on.

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