06 Sep You have the right

Did you know you have the statutory (legal) right to be accompanied at a formal meeting by a trade union representative, or colleague if you are an employee?

A formal meeting is a meeting that could end in a sanction (warning). Note that even if your employer does not recognise trade unions for pay and bargaining purposes, you still have the legal right to be accompanied at formal meetings such as disciplinary, sickness absence and organisational change.

As an employee, you also have the right to be accompanied in grievance proceedings if you are complaining about your employer breaching a contractual or statutory right. It has been my experience that some employers allow (at their discretion) their employees to be accompanied at investigation meetings.

Some employees are content to be supported by a colleague should the need arise.  However, it is essential to note that trade unions have significant knowledge, expertise, and resources concerning employment matters that are accessible to their members.  Most unions also offer a range of benefits to their members such as training, legal, and financial advice.

If you are considering joining a trade union, you will need to carefully research and choose the one that is the right fit for you, and the sector in which you operate.

However, you choose to exercise your legal right will be a personal decision for you; the crucial point is knowing you have the right to be accompanied at formal meetings.

© Dawn H Jones is an HR Specialist.

Initially published 22 October 2018; latest revision 6 September 2020.

If you found this post useful, please leave a comment, share and follow us on social media.  Please note that this post does not constitute specific HR advice if you require help please contact an appropriately qualified professional or, email info@hopeplace.co.uk