Rights to trade union membership

Rights of union learning representatives

New rights for certain union officials were introduced in April 2003. These placed the status of union learning representatives (ULRs) alongside that of union shop stewards by allowing them paid time off to discharge their duties.

Union learning representatives are:

• representatives of a recognised union who provide advice to union members about their training, educational and developmental needs
• elected or appointed in accordance with the union's rules
• trained in line with a statutory training condition
• notified to the employer in writing

Rights of ULRs

ULRs have a legal right to reasonable paid time off during working hours to carry out their duties, which may include:

• undertaking relevant training
• analysing the learning or training needs of union members
• providing information and advice on learning or training
• arranging learning or training
• consulting the employer about learning and training
• preparing for the above

A ULR does not have a negotiating role.

Advantages for employers

ULRs can be a source of expert advice. They cost the employer comparatively little and can help with identifying the training needs of staff and encouraging a learning culture.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Rights of trade union members and non-members
• Rights of union officials
• Rights of union learning representatives
• Rights of various employee representatives

 

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