Join a Union to Make Life Better

The Workers of England Union (WEU) wholeheartedly agrees with Frances O’Grady when she highlights the benefits of joining a trade union. We encourage our members to share the advantages of membership with colleagues, family, and friends. The WEU is always just a telephone call away if you need advice or support at work.

Why Choose the WEU Over Traditional Unions?

Unlike the old, tired, and politically affiliated trade unions, WEU representatives are independent of your employer. They can discuss your employment rights directly with management without fear of company sanctions. This ensures your concerns are addressed honestly and effectively.

Support from the TUC General Secretary

Frances O’Grady, the TUC General Secretary, calls on all workers—freelance, contract, temporary, or permanent—to band together by joining a union. She warns of a “lost decade” in living standards and urges workers to use their collective influence to improve wages and working conditions.

“Get a group of your colleagues together and join a union. Feel that support, that confidence, and that pride that only comes when you stand with your workmates,” O’Grady said. Learn more about this campaign.

Challenges Facing Low-Paid Workers

Despite recent wage increases, average workers remain £40 a week worse off in real terms than before the financial crisis—equivalent to over £2,000 a year. With zero-hours contracts on the rise and average wage growth stuck at just 2%, the TUC warns of a two-speed recovery, where consumer spending and house prices soar but manufacturing and exports lag behind.

Government Action and the National Living Wage

The introduction of the national living wage will require employers to raise pay for staff over 25 to at least the new rate. While business groups like the CBI call this a gamble, the TUC welcomes the boost and urges the government to:

• Invest in boosting productivity and supporting industry
• Work with trade unions to build a high-wage, high-growth economy
• Strengthen collective bargaining so workers can fight for fairer pay

Looking Ahead

In 2016, instead of attacking trade unions, the government should collaborate with them to create a Britain where everyone moves forward together. The scarcity of talent may push up wages, but without stronger unions, many workers will still face dead-end jobs with limited prospects.

For independent support and expert representation at work, call the WEU today or join a union to make your life better.