Handle a request from a trade union representative for time off to carry out their duties

FAQs

• If an employer does not recognise a union, does it have to allow representatives of that union paid time off?

• Which duties are union representatives allowed paid time off to carry out?

• For what kind of training are union representatives entitled to paid time off?

• If there is more than one union representative in an organisation, are they all entitled to paid time off to carry out union duties?

• How much notice must union representatives give to their employer of time off required for union duties?

• Is there a limit to how much time off an employer must allow a union representative to take?

• Can an employer refuse time off for union duties or activities at a particular time due to the requirements of the business?

• What are the potential consequences of an employer failing to allow a union representative or member reasonable time off for union duties or activities?

• What are the potential consequences of an employer failing to comply with the provisions of the Acas code of practice on time off for trade union duties and activities?