Joining union during an issue

[AllKnowingGerbil]

Hello a problem at work is bubbling up. Basically I think I'm being bullied. I'm trying to tackle it with senior managers.

Someone suggested I join Unison in case I need a representative. However I think I read on here that you can't join during an existing issue.

Does anyone know where I stand?

A union is like an insurance policy so I doubt you will be able to use their services having not paid into the pot.

I joined in the midst of an ongoing issue at work and they (Unison) were very supportive.

Generally speaking a union will not represent you as a new member for an existing dispute.

It would be best to have a look at whichever union represents or supports your line of work. PP are correct in that they will not be able to support a current issue. Probably still worth joining though.

Definitely join.
I spoke to them recently about an ongoing issue. They couldn’t represent me formally due to a technicality but gave me great advice on the phone, following up with emails.
Why wouldn’t you join?

Have you spoken directly to HR and also tried acas?

Join. They probably won't be able to act on your behalf for this existing issue but they can advise and be there for future issues.

I joined unite as something was bubbling in a company I worked in where my line manager was trying to bully me out of my job. Unite were brilliant, however after it all I did feel area managers were breathing down my neck so I parted with the company and became self employed. Was better fore in the long run but at the time standing up to the bullying with the support of the Union felt good.

Oh yes, but definitely join.
Ime issues crop up throughout your working life and I've found the Unite legal helpline very useful a couple of times too.

It may depend what stage of the issue you're at. If you haven't submitted a grievance or had HR involved yet, it could be okay. And in some circumstances they might take on an existing issue- that would depend on the union in question. Mine (not Unison) says it won't take on a case until you’ve been a member for at least 3 months.

I agree it's like am insurance policy, and I was very, very glad of it when I (wrongly) ended up in a disciplinary.

Contact ACAS for immediate advice. A union will not take your case on as pointed out by others but your works procedural handbook will lay out what happens in disciplinaries, grievances etc it should or will usually say a colleague, union rep etc can be with you at any meetings.

I used to work for a union. They won't help with pre-existing issues and this will be made clear when you join in the terms and conditions or by the person who takes your application if it's by phone. ACAS is your best bet here but I would still join a union for assistance with any issues you might have in the future.

Have you spoken directly to HR and also tried acas?

HR represent the business, not the workers.

Most unions will not formally represent you if your case is ongoing, but even then they'll offer support in the background.

Do you know if there is a rep in your workplace? I'd have a chat with them first, most are in the role because they want to help people, so even before you've joined (and once you do) will provide a handhold and guide you where they can.

Thanks everyone.

Theres no rep. We are public sector but a tiny office without hr or dedicated rep. I was previously a member but stopped after having DC as I became part time and just couldn't afford it.

It sounds like they probably wouldnt help. But I do think if my employer knows I'm a member it might make them a bit more attentive so I will probably join regardless as finances are slightly better now nursery over.

Years ago I had a conflict at work, and the union rep took up my case (because the company was in the wrong) even though I wasn't a member! I'm sure it'll help to be a member, as the company might be more inclined to read the rule book knowing you have union support.