What are trade unions?
Trade unions are organisations of workers which attempt to improve the pay and working conditions for their members. In return for paying a subscription, members receive a wide range of benefits. These can be legal, such as financial help with access to a lawyer. Many trade unions offer a range of financial benefits to members such as cheaper deals with mortgages, discounts on holidays and car purchase. Trade unions exist in a wide range of occupations and professions.
A trade union may negotiate with the company over money matters, such as pay and pensions. Often within a workplace, a trade union representative, known as a shop steward will act as a 鈥榞o-between鈥 between worker and management. He/she will try to resolve problems which may arise.
How can people participate in a trade union?
Members can participate in trade union activities by:
- attending union meetings in the workplace and discussing issues like pay and conditions
- voting in ballots held by the union, sometimes they will decide whether or not the union should take action
- voting in ballots to elect a new representative, such as a shop steward
- taking part in a form of industrial action such as a work-to-rule or a strike
Some employers do not recognise trade unions as they feel they are bad for business and may therefore discourage staff from joining. Other employers understand that good worker/management relations are important.
Trade unions work with employees and management on a daily basis, resolving workplace issues. Trade unions have rights but they also have responsibilities which they must adhere to.
What are trade union rights?
- To take industrial action to protect the rights of workers.
- To hold a secret ballot to establish if the majority of members are in favour of taking action.
- To try to attract new trade union members.
What are trade union responsibilities?
- Not to pressure anyone into joining a trade union.
- Trade unions can ask their members about changes in the workplace.
- To ensure that all forms of trade union activity and industrial action are peaceful and within the law.