Are you in a union?

[MartinQ]

I've been in my current job for just over six years and I've never been in the union. I'm not sure why exactly, but it's more than likely resenting part of my subs going to the Labour party and their militant anti-business tendencies. I'm now thinking I should put that aside as it seems I'm cutting off my nose to spite my face, in that the member benefits may be of use to me. Plus it's nice to have some support in the case of a disciplinary (not that I'm planning on that happening).

I realise with the slightly right of centre bias on here we're not exactly likely to endorse joining, but I'm interested in whether you are a union member or not and the reasons for your decision.

[Johnnytheboy]

Can't you opt out of the contribution to Labour?

[Siscar]

Not every union operates a political fund and if you join one that does, yes, if you want to you can opt out.

[egor110]

I'm in the cwu , you can opt out of paying anything to labour.

[andym1603]

Not a member of an union as it is not allowed. However we do have an association, which for our £18 monthly subs is pretty
toothless. No political tie-in but unlimited access to a firm of solicitors if the case arises.

[arfur daley]

[Siscar]

Why a picture of a bunch of Americans? Employment law and the role of unions is very different there.

[egor110]

Wtf's that picture got to do with the o/p query?

[MartinQ]

Thanks, I didn't realise you could opt out of the donation.

However, unless it's a seriously catastrophic situation I can't see myself going on strike. I'm reasonably sure a strike won't arise, but I can sense some tension it does happen...

[egor110]

MartinQ said:

Thanks, I didn't realise you could opt out of the donation.

However, unless it's a seriously catastrophic situation I can't see myself going on strike. I'm reasonably sure a strike won't arise, but I can sense some tension it does happen...

It's not just going on strike though, not sure what you do but if you make a balls up they can help, if you have a bullying management culture they can help, if your attacked whilst doing your job they can provide legal help.

Also bear in mind your shop floor rep will does it voluntary he won't be seeing a penny of your subs.

If you don't belong to a union and a strike is called then fair enough, it's the people who belong to a union and don't go on strike that get grief.

Edited by egor110 on Monday 5th August 18:45

[MartinQ]

egor110 said:

MartinQ said:

Thanks, I didn't realise you could opt out of the donation.

However, unless it's a seriously catastrophic situation I can't see myself going on strike. I'm reasonably sure a strike won't arise, but I can sense some tension it does happen...

It's not just going on strike though, not sure what you do but if you make a balls up they can help, if you have a bullying management culture they can help, if your attacked whilst doing your job they can provide legal help.

Also bear in mind your shop floor rep will does it voluntary he won't be seeing a penny of your subs.

I know it's not just about striking, I was just commenting on the picture that was posted. I know one of the reps quite well so I know they have to deal with a lot of issues. It's not something I would have the patience or inclination to do, so kudos to him.

[Johnnytheboy]

If they do have a strike ballot, make sure you vote.

I'm always confused by the fact a higher portion of a workforce walk out than actually voted to strike.

[popegregory]

It's essential for teachers for when one of the little darlings decides to make up an allegation as they hope it'll get them out of detention.

[williredale]

I'm in Unison and I've been a member for ten years. I've been a shop steward for part of that although I'm not now.

There have been several strike votes in that time all of which I have voted on.

[scoobychris555]

CWU for me. I believe 90%+ of our workforce belong. It is almost expected at Royal Mail.

Edited by scoobychris555 on Monday 5th August 21:47

[Mojooo]

Johnnytheboy said:

If they do have a strike ballot, make sure you vote.

I'm always confused by the fact a higher portion of a workforce walk out than actually voted to strike.

It 9oftern, depending on the person) works on the basis that if members vote then you go with what the members say - so you will also have people who voted not to strike going out on strike.

I have been in both USDAW (private sect) and Unision (public) - althouygh i did not ned either, a lot of my colleagues needed USDAW a the supermarket we worked for had a habit is being extremley harsh on staff.

[FunkyNige]

popegregory said:

It's essential for teachers for when one of the little darlings decides to make up an allegation as they hope it'll get them out of detention.

Same with posties and getting legal help when bitten by dogs.

[egor110]

scoobychris555 said:

CWU for me. I believe 90%+ of our workforce belong. It is almost expected at Royal Mail.

Edited by scoobychris555 on Monday 5th August 21:47

You must be romec then?

[davepoth]

Managed to avoid it in the companies I've been in, mainly because the union at the companies I've been in has been chocolate teapot-esque in usefulness.

In the right circumstances and with the right leadership they can be very useful, but I don't think they are the best solution in a lot of situations.

[scoobychris555]

egor110 said:

You must be romec then?

Royal Mail Engineering. You?