Joining a Union?

Question

I have a full time office administration job. I have been working at this employer for 6 months. Recently through some differences with my line manger, I have had a verbal warning. I think this was most unfair, and so do some of my colleagues, but they are afraid to speak out, because they need a job. There is no union that I can join at work.

Can you please advice how I could join a union, which one is the best one to join, and how long I need to be with them to use their services?

Finally, do you think I should get advice from other sources like the citizens advice bureau, instead of joining a union?

Thanks

Answer 1

Many peoples household insurance has legal help which covers disputes at work. Check that out.

Answer 2

I know a reprimand can be infuriating, but I would advise you to be patient and not be too reactive. Try to meet the expectations of the company in a cooperative manner - that is what they expect from a good employee.

If your job involves supervision of other workers you would probably not be eligible for union help. I was in management in a hospital and was told to report nurses who were talking about organizing a union. I did not comply and supported the nurses, but I had to do this quietly. It was a real mess and nurses often burned out on the job. When everyone is screaming about the high cost of medical care it is difficult to even hear what the nurses were complaining about.

I have little faith in unions today. Wages keep going down in many fields and American jobs are sent overseas. That is a fair reflection of the power of unions today, I think. I have seen good jobs simply cease to exist in places where unions really made a great effort of supporting their members.

Answer 3

Getting a Union recognised by an employer is a hells own job,,they basically don`t have to,,,you can only join a union that specifically works within in your sector,,,If you want a union in your work place the staff will have to vote it in,,,by at least a 2/3rds majority,,,it will have to be run properly...personally your best bet is to contact a solicitor specialising in employment law,,,if you feel you are being wrongly treated by your employer you should refer to a specialist like a solicitor or the CAB,,,union membership is not the easiest option,,,
Source,,,was a union rep for many years with the NUR

Answer 4

Unions are great but some places refuse to recognise them.
There is no harm in going to the citizens advice for free advice, they can tell you what your rights are and put you in touch with other organisations including a union who will help you.
It must be difficult for you being there just 6 months and not wanting to fall out with the manager but you do have rights. i would definatly see citizens advice first to see where you stand before you jump in with solicitors and union reps.

Answer 5

,you can join a union even if you are the only one in the office under freedom of choice. the best one for you l recommend the community union based in kidderminster but covers the whole of the country. you will be eligible to use their services as soon as you join after your first direct debit payment an officer will look after you personally if you are the only member of your office, but you will find that others will follow you after a while they always do. you will find them in yellow pages.

Answer 6

You might try MSF, but if you're effectively a branch of one member, I wouldn't expect them to put a lot of effort into supporting you. Are you expecting further harrassment from this line manager? Is it a personality clash or something? Personally, I'd be looking for alternative employment.

Answer 7

I think Unions are good for job security but at same time maybe a waste of money, if your job wants rid of you then they do it!

Answer 8

ask a union to visit your job site.

Answer 9

if you think you have been unfairly treated there is always the industrial tribunal, but seek advise from the citizens advice first.