An introduction to trade unions and how to work with them effectively
Trade unions have existed in the UK for centuries. Although membership levels have decreased significantly since their peak in the 1970s, they remain an important form of collective employee voice. Developing effective working relationships with trade union representatives and members can help organisations to build a positive employment relations climate.
This factsheet explores the role and influence of trade unions and looks at the current level of union membership in the UK. It briefly looks at the history of trade unions and the role of trade union representatives. Finally, the factsheet considers the continuing value of a partnership approach to working with trade unions.
Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.
Already a member? Login here.
This factsheet examines what the psychological contract is, why it's important and the strategic implications it has on the employment relationship
Compare your health and wellbeing practices with the latest trends, drawn from CIPD 2026 research data.
Benchmark your employees' perceptions of work life balance against 2026 CIPD research data
The latest data on job satisfaction, employee perceptions of their organisations, and employee contributions to their organisation's productivity
This factsheet examines what the psychological contract is, why it's important and the strategic implications it has on the employment relationship
Learn how to identify the signs of stress and address stress at work
Understand how being defined in UK law as an employee, a worker or self-employed affects employment rights and employers’ different legal responsibilities towards them
Outlines the main characteristics of strategic and total reward, and looks at designing and implementing a reward strategy across the organisation