Introduction

A trade union is an organisation of workers that seeks to protect and advance the interests of its members by negotiating with employers on pay and conditions of work. Unions may also provide legal advice, financial assistance, sickness benefits and education facilities to their members.

There can be advantages to employers if their staff are in a union:

• it can be easier to communicate, consult and negotiate with one body than with several individuals
• unions can help with safety issues in the workplace
• they can help to organise training and development
• they can help to improve staff morale and commitment

An employer cannot refuse to employ someone on the basis of their membership or non-membership of a trade union. This guide aims to explain the basic rights of trade union members, non-members, union officials, union learning representatives and other types of employee representatives.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Rights of trade union members and non-members
• Rights of union officials
• Rights of union learning representatives
• Rights of various employee representatives