Consequences for involving union

[Jobdrama]

Hi,

Some advice please, I have what appear to be some valid concerns about how my employer handled my redundancy and maternity. I have had an initial talk with my union and am about to send details. I work in financial services and I don't know of anyone who has raised a complaint before.

Is this likely to back fire on me? Would the industry likely avoid me as a trouble maker? Does anyone have any experience or advice. I suspect at my level and worklocation it is pretty unusual to be in the union.

Thanks in advance

Legally you’re entitled to involve your Union. Just be clear on what the issues are. be truthful.

Thanks GoingOutOutNever. My concern isn't so much the legal side, but the reality.

The reality is that you will likely have to leave. You won't be made to, but it will get uncomfortable, yes. Speaking from experience here.

Thanks Amaze. Do you know if I am likely to get a trouble maker reputation that makes getting jobs elsewhere difficult?

I am somewhat torn between doing "the right thing" and highlighting my employer should follow employment law, and keeping quiet, albeit worse off than I should be, with the view that long term it may be in my better interests.

They might well think you're a trouble maker, but if they act on it by giving you a bad reference / preventing you from progressing / commenting that you always complain or anything like that, it could come under victimisation and they'd be in trouble.

You have every right to be a member of a union, whether your employer recognises one or not. You have every right to seek their advice. You have every right to make a formal complaint and you have have a union official with you in the formal grievance or disciplinary process.

If your employer has a problem with that, they'd be in trouble.