Trade union membership rights

Union learning representatives (ULRs) have the same status as union officials and are allowed paid time off to carry out their duties.

Union learning representatives are:

• representatives of a recognised union who provide advice to union members about their training, educational and developmental needs
• elected or appointed in accordance with the union's rules
• trained in line with statutory training conditions
• notified to the employer in writing

Rights of ULRs

ULRs have a legal right to reasonable paid time off during working hours to carry out their duties, which may include:

• undertaking relevant training
• analysing the learning or training needs of union members
• providing information and advice on learning or training
• arranging learning or training
• consulting the employer about learning and training
• preparing for the above

The law does not assign a negotiating role to ULRs. However, some employers have voluntarily negotiated learning agreements with their ULRs.

Advantages of ULRs for employers

ULRs can be a source of expert advice. They cost you comparatively little and can help with identifying the training needs of staff and encouraging a learning culture within the company.