Industrial Relations.

“Industrial relations” refers to the complex relationship between employers, employees, and the institutions that regulate their interactions.

Industrial relations can include:

• Trade unions
• Employer associations
• Employee relations
• Collective bargaining
• Workplace policies

It encompasses a wide range of issues and practices related to the workplace, including negotiation, administration, collective agreements, dispute resolution, and the establishment of workplace policies.

A trade union is an organised association of workers formed to protect and promote their collective interests and rights.

Here are the key aspects of what a trade union is and what it does:

• Representation
• Collective bargaining
• Advocacy and support
• Protection of rights
• Dispute resolution
• Campaigning and lobbying

Trade unions play a vital role in the employment market by promoting fair treatment, improving working conditions, and ensuring workers have a collective voice in their relationships with employers.

A collective bargaining agreement is a contract that is negotiated between an employer and a trade union representing the employees.

Typically, a collective bargaining agreement will be proposed to an employer to negotiate a variety of components such as:

• Wages
• Working hours
• Benefits
• Job security
• Working conditions

Are you currently negotiating a collective bargaining agreement? Contact our expert solicitors on 0203 007 5500.

A solicitor can help with many aspects of industrial relations.

They can offer advice and guidance in a range of areas:

• Compliance – A solicitor will support you in ensuring you comply with employment laws and regulations to avoid potential claims and penalties.
• Dispute Resolution – Assist in dispute resolution and, if needed, act as a mediator in disputes between management and employees or unions.
• Representation – Can represent the business in an employment tribunal, court, or arbitration proceedings.
• Collective Bargaining –  Develop strategies for negotiation that align with the business values and provide negotiation support to secure favourable terms for the business.
• Risk Management – Conduct assessments to identify potential industrial relations risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Speak to one of our employment law experts on 0203 007 5500.

Our employment law team includes solicitors and HR professionals to provide a blend of legal and practical guidance on a wide range of matters across a broad selection of sectors. We offer pragmatic advice and solutions that pre-empt common employment issues that are often overlooked or ignored.

We advise public sector bodies and private enterprises of all sizes, from start-ups to multi-nationals, and heavily unionised organisations, all from our employment hubs in London and Brighton.

Our highly experienced team are here to help steer your business to the right outcomes at all stages of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment to retirement.