The rights of trade union reps

You are here

Home

The rights of trade union reps

Trade union reps are entitled to paid time off to get training and do their work as reps (as shop stewards, health and safety or union learning reps or other trade union officials).

Paid time off for trade union reps

Reps are entitled to reasonable paid time off to do their union work as long as the union is:

  • independent
  • officially recognised by the employer to represent union members in negotiations on things like pay and terms and conditions

Examples of trade union duties reps have the right to paid time off for are:

  • negotiating pay, terms and conditions
  • helping union members with disciplinary or grievance procedures including meetings to hear their cases
  • going with union members to meetings with their line manager to discuss flexible working requests
  • discussing issues that affect union members like redundancies or the sale of the business

Union learning reps have the right to paid time off to:

  • analyse the learning or training needs of union members
  • give information and advice about learning or training
  • arrange or encourage learning or training
  • discuss their activities as a learning representative with their employer
  • train as a learning representative

When reps aren’t entitled to paid time off

Reps aren’t allowed paid time off to attend union meetings or go to meetings with union officials. Instead, employers should allow unpaid time off for these activities. Reps aren’t allowed any time off for industrial action.

What is reasonable time off?

There isn’t a legal definition of reasonable time off but things that need to be taken into account are the:

  • kind of work the business or organisation does
  • workloads
  • needs of line managers and co-workers
  • importance of health and safety at work
  • amount of time reps have already had off for trade union work

Union reps and employers should discuss reasonable time off and come to an agreement about it.

Problems with getting paid time off for union work

Reps can speak to their trade union or use their employer’s grievance procedures and should check their employment contract, company handbook or intranet site for details.

As a last resort reps may be able to take a case to an employment tribunal.

Download the ‘Acas code of practice on time off work for trade union duties and activities’ (PDF, 408KB)

back to index

 

 

Made Smarter WM

Made Smarter is a national movement to drive growth amongst UK makers and advance the UK economy. Backed by world renowned businesses and the UK government, it will improve the development and adoption of emerging technologies. Making a real, everyday difference to people from the boardroom to the factory floor.

Find Out More

 

 

Looking for work, or have vacancies to fill?

 

CW Employment Solutions offers a service for job seekers and employers, recruiters and education leavers, to connect, find jobs, post vacancies and access the wealth of support measures that have been implemented across the region.

Click Here to Find out More

Client testimonials

Without the Growth Hubs help and assistance, we would never have been able to increase our sales & output and also grow our local business. With this help in purchasing new equipment we have expanded our operations and gained a new and increased customer base.

Nuneaton Roof Truss,

Over the past few years, Armstrongs has built up a fantastic relationship with Gary Thyeson from the Growth Hub. His advice on grants and funding has been really valuable to both Armstrongs and some of our clients. His knowledge of local business support has been helpful in signposting us to relevant support agencies as required. We look forward to working with Laura Delahunty moving forwards.

Armstrongs Accountancy LTD,

In the short time since first engaging with the Warwickshire Growth Hub we feel that Laura has understood our vision and has been so very supportive in linking us to the specialist teams who are now supporting us with training, finance and recruitment. A great service that every growing organisation should connect with

MES Systems Limited,

I have had an excellent experience working with Laura from the Growth Hub, from day one, she was taking detailed attention to my concerns and ideas. She was able to put me in contact with different organisations and people to find out answers to my questions and help me to solve some inquiries I was having. I feel this support definitely had a positive impact in my plans. 

 

PALACIOS LTD,

It’s been a fantastic inaugural eight months for the TalentTech Recruitment team and, although the reality of setting up and running a company can be a somewhat daunting experience, we have been extremely grateful for the superb help, advice and guidance given to us along our journey by Gavin Barnett and the team at CW Growth Hub. Gavin’s introductions to both Warwick & Coventry Universities and his wider business network have been absolutely invaluable.

TalentTech Recruitment LTD,

For many individuals out there, it is very hard to figure out ways and know which direction to go when it comes to setting up a business. The challenges of taking your idea and bringing it to life and not knowing where to go and who to speak to for advice. it can get very frustrating..

King of Saffron LTD,

This grant [which we received with the help of the Growth Hub and Coventry City Council] will really help us get on track for business growth and succeed with our vision. Personally, I would also like to thank the team for supporting me through the grant application process. You have been very approachable and attentive throughout.

Exeter Analytical (UK) Limited,

Thank you for the comprehensive and professional guidance

Burbidge & Son Ltd,

Over the years since the Growth Hub was set up we have habitually gone to our Account Manager as a one-stop shop for all business-related information.  It has been a really convenient way of finding suppliers, advisors and, on one occasion, we even asked for assistance with finding customers.  We are invited to a wide range of business events including business development workshops, Brexit roundtable discussions, seminars on various topics and have also been asked to speak at some events.  When we have needed additional information, for example, finding finance sources or help with selecti

Marchantcain Design Limited,

Thanks to CW Growth hub getting us access to grant funding we have been able to invest in the latest computer monitoring system, which will enable us to compete with the national companies within our industry.

Comrie Leisure Limited,

GET IN TOUCH

About

Part of the Government-supported growth hub network