Trade unions and workplace representation
How joining a union can help with disability-related workplace issues, and what a union representative can do.
Guidance, not legal advice. This page summarises official UK sources listed below. What applies to you depends on your circumstances and nation.
- Last reviewed
- 1 August 2026
- Next review due
- 1 February 2027
What a union rep can help with
- Accompanying you to meetings about adjustments, sickness absence or disciplinary matters
- Helping negotiate reasonable adjustments with your employer
- Providing advice and sometimes legal support for discrimination claims
Your right to be accompanied
You have a statutory right to be accompanied by a trade union representative or a colleague at most formal disciplinary and grievance meetings, including those related to disability and sickness absence.
Checklist
- Check whether your workplace recognises a union relevant to your sector
- Ask a union rep for support before a formal meeting, not on the day
- Keep your own notes of meetings, even when accompanied
Where to get help
TUC
Trade Union Congress information and union finder
Acas
Guidance on the right to be accompanied