Trade unions are a common feature of the UK workplace in many sectors.
As a result, businesses need to be aware of the laws which protect trade unions and the activities of their members. Even where a union is not formally recognised for collective bargaining purposes, businesses are still likely to encounter trade union members and their activities on a regular basis.
Hill Dickinson has a wealth of experience in handling all forms of trade union and collective labour issues. We work with clients to resolve industrial relations issues efficiently and effectively to ensure minimal disruption to business operations.
We can provide expert advice and support with:
- Trade union recognition disputes
- Industrial action issues e.g. compliance with statutory requirements, industrial action injunctions and pursuing claims against trades unions for damages arising out of unlawful industrial action
- Trade union-related individual employment claims e.g. time off for union representatives, disciplinary action against trade union representatives and complaints for dismissal or detrimental treatment on trade union grounds
- The negotiation and preparation of collective agreements
- Advice and drafting in relation to works councils
