What are the benefits of being a union member?
There are some benefits of having a unionised workforce. Let's take a closer look at some of them (expand each section for further info):
Higher pay, better work benefits
Higher pay, better work benefits
Working people standing together and collectively negotiating with employers means that union members generally get:
- higher rates of pay and annual pay rises
- better sick pay
- more holidays
- improved access to flexible working arrangements
- plus, many other policy provisions improved beyond legal minimum requirements like maternity, paternity and adoption pay and leave
This is because they negotiate with employers, rather than leaving it to managers to decide.
Being treated with dignity & respect
Being treated with dignity & respect
Unions stand up for your right to work in an environment free from discrimination and to ensure you're treated with dignity and respect.
They push employers to make workplaces more inclusive for women, LGBT+ workers, black and minority ethnic workers, older workers, and disabled workers by negotiating progressive policies. Where there’s a strong trade union, employees are far less likely to face problems at work while pregnant, on maternity leave or when they return to work.
Safer & healthier working life
Safer & healthier working life
Unions tackle the causes of ill health at work, not just the symptoms. That means lower accident and injury rates, less stress and better understanding and support for those with mental health problems. Every year, unions collectively train 10,000 workers in health & safety.
Workplaces are safer where there's a strong union presence - you only need to look at the responses of unionised workplaces during the Covid-19 pandemic. Trained reps spot unsafe working practices and cut accident rates. That’s why workplaces with union representation have significantly lower injury rates. That's a fact.
Support at work
Support at work
If you run into problems at work, your union has your back. Every year, unions support thousands of members who run into problems at work - from smaller issues like getting holiday approved, to the significant things like facing disciplinary action. Unions make sure you're treated fairly – without you having to worry about paying for legal support. Whether the problem is with employment contracts, harassment, redundancy, pensions or discrimination - your union will be there to help you.
