is trade union membership worth it?

elsien

ohreally wrote: »

This would fall to your branch secretary or perhaps full time official to agree and implement a facilities agreement.

"there is not the option of having any work time for union activities" sounds like the propaganda according to HR.

So out of interest, how would that work in practice? In my last role, if I was on shift in a care home, and someone outside of my workplace wanted support. My employer who does not recognise my union would have to pay someone else to cover my shift while I carried out union duties.
They're not going to agree to that for something that they do not perceive of being of any benefit to them. This is an employer that doesn't pay overtime, bank holiday working etc. They would just say they can't afford it.

Running_On_Empty

Southend1 wrote: »

Does unison negotiate your pay and conditions with your employer? If so you only have a say in negotiations as a member. Union members are generally paid more than non members.

What happens if you have a problem at work and need legal advice or have to go to tribunal? Unison would cover the costs which would be considerable if you had to pay them out of your own pocket. You can also get support and advice from your local steward, who will also be able to represent you at grievance or disciplinary hearings.

You also get free access to a certain amount of legal advice on non work related matters.

You can access training at no cost to yourself via the union. speak to your steward or learning rep for advice.

Unison uses some of your subs to campaign and lobby for improved pay and working conditions in the UK.

Working in a unionised workplace is generally much safer than a non unionised workplace. Union health and safety reps will be working hard to ensure your safety and wellbeing.

There are some discounts available via the union on various products and services (mostly financial but also discounted holidays etc).

There are a number of rulebook benefits e.g. Death benefit, accident benefit.

Unison welfare can help you in an emergency e.g. With an emergency grant or a respite holiday if you have been experiencing difficulties in your life.

There are a number of self organised groups e.g. Black members, LGBT members, women members etc to promote equal opportunities and help boost confidence, fight discrimination etc.

Your branch may organise social events etc

I could go on....

It is incorrect that union members get paid more than non members, this is untrue and very misleading. In a unionised workplace, there is no differential at all.

Southend1

Running_On_Empty wrote: »

It is incorrect that union members get paid more than non members, this is untrue and very misleading. In a unionised workplace, there is no differential at all.

Across the whole UK economy, union members on average earn 16.4% more than non members. (https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/313768/bis-14-p77-trade-union-membership-statistical-bulletin-2013.pdf)

Of course you're right that in a unionised workplace, there is no differential between members and non members.

Apologies if it wasn't clear what I meant.

Another_not_new_user

elsien wrote: »

So out of interest, how would that work in practice? In my last role, if I was on shift in a care home, and someone outside of my workplace wanted support. My employer who does not recognise my union would have to pay someone else to cover my shift while I carried out union duties.
They're not going to agree to that for something that they do not perceive of being of any benefit to them. This is an employer that doesn't pay overtime, bank holiday working etc. They would just say they can't afford it.

Time off for union duties is a legal right, not an option for employers, regardless of recognition agreements. Certain activities the employer must pay - again it is the law, not an option. The rest, the employer doesn't have to pay and the union makes up wages lost for union activity.


It sounds like this is the sort of employer who also can't afford maternity pay, paternity pay, sickness and disabilities .... I am sensing a really excellent reason for being in a union!


I always operate by a rather simple equation - the more resistant an employer is to their employees being in a union, the more you need to join one. If you are a good and fair (and above all - legal!) employer, why would a union give you a single second of worry?

seven-day-weekend

You used to be able to reduce your Union fees by stating that you wish to join the 'Non-Political Fund'. I assume you still can, if you don't want your money to go, directly or indirectly, to the Labour Party.

Marktheshark

They are far too interested in things like Gaza and Palestine to be worthy of a single penny of the working mans wage.
I have no doubt they might be "worthy" causes but the amount of workers rights stripped away just in the last few years without as much as frown by the unions makes them defunct.
They were hijacked by Communists and are beyond return.

cavework

Dads Nursing home fees were topped up by USDAW.
He was a member for 20 plus years.
Also USDAW looked after Mum after Dad went into the home by giving her a monthly allowance and sending news letters, vouchers and a hamper at Xmas

ohreally

elsien wrote: »

So out of interest, how would that work in practice?

In practice, in the absence of recognition, effective organising can be a challenge.


http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1992/52/part/III/crossheading/time-off-for-trade-union-duties-and-activities

elsien

Another_not_new_user wrote: »

Time off for union duties is a legal right, not an option for employers, regardless of recognition agreements. Certain activities the employer must pay - again it is the law, not an option. The rest, the employer doesn't have to pay and the union makes up wages lost for union activity.

That's helpful to know - I'll bear it in mind for future reference.

C_Mababejive

In many cases union reps are simply used as tools by managers and the company. They know that they have to gain approval from reps to drive policy. They be nice to reps, reps dont want to stick their head above the parapet...decisions get nodded through over beer and sandwiches..everyone is happy apart possibly from members paying union dues for !!!!!! all.

Unless your in the RMT or similar of course..