protecting workplace rights

• Explain two reasons why trade unions are still relevant today."(4 marks)

  ✅ Trade unions protect workers’ rights by negotiating better pay and conditions.

  ✅ They provide support in legal disputes and financial crises.
• Origin of Trade Unions:

  • Started in late 18th century, grew in 19th
  • Workers fought for pay/conditions
  • 1824: Ban lifted, unions allowed
  • 1900: Labour Party created with union support
• Timeline Highlights:

  • 1868: TUC formed
  • 1871: Legal protection for unions
  • 1979: Union membership peaked at 13.2m, declined after due to anti-union laws
• Trade Unions Today:

  • Membership declined to 6.2m by 2017
  • Decline due to economic changes, older membership, gig economy
• Rights in the Workplace:

  • Contract of employment
  • National minimum wage
  • Protection from discrimination (Equality Act 2010)
  • National living wage (over 25s)
  • Health and safety laws
• Supporting Workers:

  • Staff associations (e.g. BMA) do similar work
  • Provide negotiation, representation, support