How to Resolve a Dispute With Your Trade Union

If you believe your trade union has breached its own rules, failed to represent you properly, or conducted elections irregularly, you can raise a formal complaint. Start with the union's internal complaints or appeals process.

If the internal process does not resolve your concern, you can complain to the Certification Officer — an independent statutory body that oversees trade unions. The Certification Officer can investigate breaches of union rules, election irregularities, and financial misconduct.

For disputes about union representation in the workplace (e.g. failure to support you in a disciplinary or grievance), consider seeking independent legal advice. ACAS can also mediate workplace disputes involving union representation.