Trade unions

​You are free to join a trade union if you wish, though it is not compulsory.

All trade unions have websites or local branches where you can join.

View our list of recognised trade unions (PDF, 114KB).

In addition to our list of recognised trade unions, we also allow the British Association of Social Workers (Social Workers Union) to sit in on all formal case work meetings, as they are a UK trade union for all social workers and are run by people qualified in social work. Meetings they might sit on include performance, grievance, probation and disciplinary meetings.

Strike action

Strike action is a work stoppage caused by the refusal of employees to work and can only lawfully take place following a ballot of trade union members, after which the council must be given notice of the intended strike. The council has business continuity arrangements in place to ensure that essential services are provided if employees do choose to strike.

The strike action guide (PDF, 228KB) aims to ensure that in the event of industrial action, there are lawful, fair and consistent arrangements in place so all employees understand what is required of them and are protected accordingly.