Joining a union - worth it?

[RC1234]

I work in a factory but in an area where the union does not actively recruit. There have been members in the past in my division but they have mostly left. I am currently on maternity - I think the name is Unite but not sure. If I ring up will they honestly say if they are active on my site?

I would always join a union where possible. Even if they are not active where you work, it would mean you always have the support of a union if you were ever in trouble at work, they could represent you, or if you have a grievance, or at risk of redundancy or something.

Yes, no union was active when I worked in a factory, I joined Unite as I felt it gave me that extra peace of mind for the same reasons as Lagoon gave.

My personal experience has been that the representation of a union has only been as effective as the local rep.

If the rep (basically a volunteer) is not interested you have a fight on your hands getting past them to have anyone who is employed to actually do the job. That is based on limited experienced of unions in a healthcare setting and the union involved was poorly represented in membership numbers so the 'volunteer' was the only person who offered to do the job but really not up to it.

My experience was not of a big union and if I'd known a paid rep would come in and support me, I'd join one.

I would. I haven't needed mine (apart from phone advice on one occasion) but it's good to know someone would be on your side if it came to it. No-one else will. The power is usually with the employer.

Thanks I think I will give them a call and take it from there. The union is really active on the factory floor but they don't bother with the support staff but maybe that is because we don't mix much.

I would. I'm currently going through a very messy and badly carried out restructure at work (and am redundant from next Tuesday - waah!). Having the union on our side has ensured that the cock-ups ate quickly identified and rectified, that people feel supported and valued as individuals, and that nothing dodgy can be got away with. My union subs have been worth every penny.

I would. It's like insurance. I hope I never have to use it, but if I'd rather have them there if I do.

There's no recognised union at my work place, but I am a union member and have contacted my union for advice, and also used some of their services.

I would always join a union that is recognised by the employer and has some bargaining power. If they are not recognised, I wouldn't bother. You'd be better off putting your subs into a savings account and using that to pay for legal advice if the need ever arises.

Is it too late to join a union when you are already being made redundant?