Why Join a Union?
Why is it better to belong to a Trade Union?
The type of work that is performed may have changed but the fact remains, where there are bosses that are driven by the desire to achieve higher profit margins and increased productivity – there are workers that are being treated unfairly.
Quite simply trade unions are just as necessary in today’s employment world as they were in Victorian times.
- Every worker deserves to be treated with respect at work and deserves to be reasonably paid for their labour.
- Every worker deserves to have a Voice at work and they deserve to have their views listened to.
- Every worker deserves to have a safe environment to work in that is free from hazards.
- Every worker deserves to be able to turn to someone for advice, guidance and, if they require it, representation.
- Every worker deserves to be treated equally where they can work in an environment that is free from bullying, harassment and discrimination.
The trade union movement continues to campaign for better working conditions and more rights for its members. We believe that this will be easier to achieve if we are bigger -the bigger our membership – the stronger we become. If we are stronger and we unite workers from across the country then we can improve the lives of our members.
Why People join Trade Unions
Job Security
Non trade union members are twice as likely to be sacked as members.
Safer Workplaces
Non trade union members are twice as likely to have an accident at work compared to members in workplaces where trade unions are present. Injury rates are higher in workplaces where management deal with health and safety issues without consulting workers' representatives such as trade union safety reps.
Legal Compensation
Union members can benefit from first class representation and assistance in receiving compensation in personal injury and criminal compensation cases.
Better Pay and Allowances
Workers who belong to a trade union are paid about 8% more than non union workers in comparable jobs.
Better Training
Workers in unionised workplaces are more likely to receive job related training than their counterparts in non-union workplaces.
Better Pension Schemes
Trade unions have won better occupational pensions for part-time workers and we have forced the Government to set up a pension protection fund which means if your pension scheme goes bust you are fully protected.
Family Friendly Policies
Workers in unionised workplaces are better off in terms of career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and support for family responsibilities than those in non-union workplaces.
Consulation with Management
People working in unionised workplaces are twice as likely to have a say through consultative committees as people in non union workplaces. Regular meetings with management are more likely where unions are present.
Political Influence
Trade unions have made major achievements including the right to four weeks paid holiday each year and greater pension protection.
Collective Strength
On our own we can feel weak and that any change is impossible. As part of a union you are part of a strong, campaigning alliance committed to winning for the members.
