Unit 20 Trade Unions WHAT IS A TRADE UNION? oAssociation of workers. oFormed to represent their interests and collectively bargain. oWork together to improve their pay and working conditions. oA Trade union: an association which represents the interest of a group of workers. TYPES OF TRADE UNIONS oCraft unions- Represent workers with particular skills. e.g.- plumbers, weavers. oCan be employed in a number of industries. oGeneral unions- Represent workers with a range of skills , occupations and from a range of industries. oIndustrial unions- Represent workers in a particular industry. E.g.- Rail Industry oWhite collar unions-Represent particular professions. e.g. Teachers, pilots. ROLE OF UNIONS oNegotiate on behalf of their members on pay scales, working hours and working conditions. oProtect or improve workers rights. oProvision of information to workers such as information on pension. oDeveloping and training schemes.
