Modern union reps' value to business

A joint statement setting out the positive contribution that modern union reps can make to the workplace has been launched today by the Department for Business, the Trades Union Congress and the CBI.

Featuring real life examples where well-known companies have worked with union representatives to bring about changes that have been in the best interests of the employer and the workforce, the case studies show that union reps can be a major resource in the workplace.

'Reps in Action shows how modern union representatives and company managers have worked together to deal with situations that can occur in any workplace and as a result have, for example, improved working practices, enhanced workplace training provision or lead to a greener workplaces.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said:

Reps are the face of unions in workplaces up and down the country, but their success stories can go unreported.

I hope employers and trade unions alike will use these examples to develop their own approach and deliver help that could be invaluable to both businesses and workers.

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

This joint publication reveals the positive contribution that union reps can make in the workplace. In these tough times Britain's businesses need as much support as possible. Union reps can be a vital resource not only for unions and their members, but also for the companies and organisations that employ them.

Director General of the CBI Richard Lambert said:

This joint publication shows the potential benefits in unionised workplaces of collaborative working between employers and workplace union reps.

As the case studies demonstrate, where unions are present, employers and trade unions who work efficiently and constructively can improve workplace performance for the mutual benefit of employer and employee.