Trade union membership rights

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.

Individuals are free to join - or not join - a trade union. You must not treat someone unfairly for reasons relating to their union membership, or non-membership.

This guide explains the employment rights of both union members and non-members who are either job applicants or already working for you.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Trade union membership rights of job applicants - employers
• Trade union membership rights of job applicants - employment agencies
• Tribunal claims for unlawful refusal of employment or the services of an employment agency on trade union membership grounds
• Trade union membership rights at the workplace
• Employment tribunal claims for discrimination against workers on trade union membership grounds
• Rights of workers relating to trade union activities and services
• Employment tribunal claims for discrimination relating to trade union activities and services
• Time-off rights for union officials and members
• Rights of union learning representatives

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