Law queries

We do not have a recognised union in my workplace, although some of us are members. We understand that there may be ways of getting a union official into the workplace. How do we do this?

There are just two ways to do this. The first is in the run-up period to a statutory recognition ballot, when unions have the right of access to workplaces without recognition. The second way is for a union official to accompany a member to a disciplinary or grievance hearing. Employers cannot refuse to admit the official as long as s/he is accredited by the union as someone capable of acting as a companion in a hearing. You should advise members of this right as in some cases it could give the union the toehold it needs to start the process towards recognition.

* More information: LRD booklet, Disciplinary and grievance procedures £3.40