Employee Organisations & Unions

Employee Organisations & Unions

If employers and employees have a history of good working relationship

and mutual trust, reaching decisions, which are fair under the

circumstances, would be achievable. For example, if the business is

poor and redundancies are possible, it would be impossible to find a

solution to suit everyone so the employer would have to make a

difficult decision. Good relations between employers and employees are

only possible if both feel that they can discuss major problems and

anticipated changes, if there can be discussion and consultation about

key issues and if they genuinely want to work together to find a

solution. After employees have been involved in a consultative process

they are usually more likely to accept a negotiated outcome.

A trade union is a voluntary organisation which employees are free to

join if they wish. There may be a subscription charge depending on

size; it varies from a very large association to a small association.

Trade unions offer a range benefits and advisory services to members,

represent their members during disciplinary or grievance procedures

and aim to protect and improve pay and conditions of employment. They

approach the government about introducing laws, which will benefit

employees.

Staff associations do not automatically have the same legal rights as

independent trade unions, although many do. They may just provide an

informal meeting ground for employers and employees and often have ...