1. Employee representation THE TIMES 100

2. Trade Unions Trade unions are organisations that represents the interests of workers across a range of issues. The role of trade unions includes: ◦Negotiation ◦Education and training ◦Providing legal and financial assistance ◦Often trade unions provide discounts and other benefits to members

3. THE TIMES 100 Collective bargaining Collective bargaining occurs when a trade union negotiates with an employer on behalf of its members on issues such as pay and conditions. As the trade union represents a large number of workers it has more influence then individual employees would have.

4. THE TIMES 100 Methods used to influence employers Negotiation (collective bargaining) Providing advice Industrial action: o Strike o Overtime ban o Work to rule

5. THE TIMES 100 Other methods of employee representation Works council – this is a forum for discussion between workers and management Employee participation e.g. through TQM and empowerment Worker directors – these are employees who represent the workforce on the boards of companies

6. THE TIMES 100 Advantages of employee representation Employers and employees (or their representatives) can work together to reach mutually beneficial agreements Can improve employee/employer relations leading to a more effective and motivated workforce It is simpler for organisations to negotiate with one representative (e.g. trade union) than many individual workers

7. THE TIMES 100 Disadvantages of employee representation Employee participation may slow down decision making Managers may feel they are being undermined Any industrial action taken may have negative effects for both workers and organisations

8. THE TIMES 100 Avoiding and resolving disputes Negotiation Consultation and involvement ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) – this is an independent body that provides advice and, if necessary, will conciliate or arbitrate. About three quarters of ACAS’ work involves dispute avoidance rather than resolution.

9. THE TIMES 100 Employee representation in context

10. THE TIMES 100 UNISON members UNISON has more than 1.3 million members. Give examples of public sector organisations in which its members work. Use the UNISON case study to help you

11. THE TIMES 100 Young workers Why is it particularly advisable for young workers to be members of trade unions? Use the UNISON case study to help you

12. THE TIMES 100 Partnerships with employers How does UNISON influence the ways that apprenticeship schemes are set up? Use the UNISON case study to help you

13. THE TIMES 100 Negotiation Over what training issues did UNISON negotiate with North Yorkshire County Council regarding young people in apprenticeships? Use the UNISON case study to help you

14. THE TIMES 100 Useful resources Employee representation lesson suggestions and activities UNISON case study UNISON website