The Council is committed to providing employees with clear information about their rights at work. We recognise the important role that trade unions play in representing employees and supporting positive employee relations.
Every worker has the legal right to:
- Join a trade union.
- Choose not to join a trade union.
- Leave a trade union at any time.
- Take part in lawful trade union activities.
Employees are protected by law from being treated unfairly or disadvantaged because they are a member of a trade union, because they are not a member of a trade union, or because they take part in lawful trade union activities.
What do trade unions do?
Trade unions represent and support their members in the workplace. They may:
- Represent employees in discussions with employers.
- Accompany members at attendance, disciplinary and grievance meetings.
- Support collective bargaining on pay, terms and conditions.
- Consult on workplace policies, organisational change and employment matters.
- Provide advice, guidance and support to members.
- Investigate complaints by their members relating to health, safety and welfare at work.
Choosing whether to join
Joining a trade union is a personal choice. Employees may choose whether to join a trade union and, if so, which trade union is most appropriate for them.
Information about recognised trade unions and local representatives
Accessing information
Employees without access to digital systems can request a paper copy of this information and trade union contact details from their line manager or HR&OD.
