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. 

Member tool: CIPD Buddy BETA
Experiment with AI to find answers on this topic with our prototype. Login to explore CIPD Buddy

To continue reading, log in or become a member

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.

  • Access to exclusive, up-to-date resources
  • Become part of a community to learn, debate and connect with other people professionals
  • Free access to a series of CIPD learning courses and a discount on the rest of our catalogue
  • Factsheet

    Personal relationships in the workplace

    This factsheet looks at the policies and procedures employers can put in place around relationships in the workplace, to mitigate risks to the business and their employees

    For Members
  • Report

    UK industrial relations: A future with trade unions

    Survey findings on employer and employee perspectives on trade union representation and relations, giving expert insight. The report makes recommendations on how to prepare for the key Employment Rights Bill reforms around trade union rights and strengthen employer and trade union partnership for mutual gain

  • Factsheet

    Pay fairness and pay reporting

    Find out what's meant by fair pay, what pay information UK employers must disclose by law and the opportunities pay narratives bring.

    For Members
  • Factsheet

    Personal relationships in the workplace

    This factsheet looks at the policies and procedures employers can put in place around relationships in the workplace, to mitigate risks to the business and their employees

    For Members
  • Factsheet

    Bonuses and incentives

    Understand the basics of bonuses and incentives, the trends in their application, and how to design and operate schemes effectively and ethically

    For Members
  • Factsheets