1. What is a trade union?

A trade union is a group of employees, trades or professions who unite as an organisation to support, protect and further the interests of its members. 

2. What does a trade union do?

A trade union offers a range of services to members including; negotiating better pay and working conditions, providing members facing work-related problems with advice and information, and ensuring free access to expert legal advice. 

3. What is a trade union representative?

A trade union representative is usually elected by fellow union members to represent them in the workplace. They ensure members have access to the information, resources and support they need from the union. They typically do not get paid for their role. 

4. Why should I join a trade union?

There are numerous benefits to joining a trade union. Not only do they fight to protect your employment rights and improve workplace conditions, but members are also able to access training opportunities and specialist legal advice and representation. Thompsons Solicitors has worked alongside trade unions since it was founded in 1921, providing members with free, independent advice and representation on issues surrounding employment rights matters, personal injury claims, and criminal and professional misconduct cases. 

5. How much does being a trade union member cost?

Union membership contributions vary. Some unions charge a set amount for each member, while others’ fees are linked to a worker’s salary. Usually there are lower rates for periods of unemployment and on retirement. You can find out more about member fees by getting in touch with them directly. 

6. Do I have to be a member of a trade union?

No. You have the right to join a trade union if you wish, to join a union of your own choosing, and to belong to more than one. 

7. Can my employer punish me for being a trade union member?

No. It is against the law for your employer to treat you unfairly, or dismiss you, because of your membership or non-membership of a trade union. If you believe they have, you should report it to your union representative as soon as possible. 

8. Are there legal benefits associated with trade union membership?

Yes. If you are a trade union member you are often covered by a free legal scheme which offers protection both in and out of the workplace. Thompsons Solicitors’ legal experts provide free advice and representation to members of many of the UK’s trade unions and have done so for more than 90 years. 

9. Will I receive more personal injury or employment rights compensation if I am a trade union member?

Compensation amounts are calculated according to the unique details of your case including the severity of your injury, the impact it has had on your life, and whether you have incurred loss of earnings as a result. Trade union members who pursue legal claims with Thompsons Solicitors receive free advice and representation in personal injury compensation claims and employment rights matters. You will have experts on your side and keep 100 per cent of the compensation we secure. Union legal schemes have stringent criteria applied to the firms they will, and won’t allow, to run members’ cases; Thompsons Solicitors is proud to meet these criteria in full and to offer specialist advice to union members based on our decades of expertise. 

Visit our Trade Unions page to learn more about the legal benefits you’re entitled to. 

To begin a personal injury compensation claim or employment matters claim with Thompsons Solicitors, the UK’s leading trade union law firm, contact us today on 0800 0 224 224 or fill in our online claim form and we’ll be in touch.