Trade Union Access: A New Framework for Employers
Strengthening of Trade Unions' Right of Access
The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces new rights to allow trade unions to access workplaces for recruitment and organising. This must be done in a "regulated and responsible manner."
This new legislation aims to simplify the process of union recognition and enhance the protections for trade union activities, repealing many of the restrictions from the Trade Union Act 2016.
Is Your Business Ready for the Biggest Shift in Employment Law?
What's New?
Key Changes for Employers
Under the new Act, "qualifying" trade unions (those with an independent certificate) have a right to access your workplace. However, this right does not apply to businesses that are run from a private dwelling.
Furthermore, employers now have a statutory duty to inform all new employees of their right to join a trade union. This information can be provided in a separate statement alongside the main terms of employment.
How to Prepare
Develop an Access Policy: Create a formal policy outlining how and when union representatives can access your premises, ensuring it is fair and regulated.
Update Onboarding Documents: Ensure your new starter process includes a clear statement informing employees of their right to join a trade union.
Train HR and Line Managers: Your management team must be aware of the new rules to handle access requests correctly and avoid disputes.
Review Employment Contracts: Check if your contracts need updating to reflect the new requirements, particularly regarding the right to join a union.
Employment Rights Act 2025 Download a summary
After more than a year of debate, the Employment Rights Bill became law on 18 December 2025 as the Employment Rights Act 2025. This is the biggest shake-up of employment law in a generation, with over 28 changes rolling out between December 2025 and into 2027. While this phased approach to the reforms gives employers time to prepare, now is the moment to get ahead. Explore what’s changing and what it means for your organisation, including key updates on sickness absence, paternity leave, parental leave, trade union access, and more.
Prepare for the Employment Rights Act 2025
The Employment Rights Act 2025 ushers in the most significant changes to UK employment law in a generation. Our CIPD HR-inform Pro product service is designed to be your essential guide, providing comprehensive resources, expert advice, and practical tools to ensure your business remains compliant and agile.
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The new Fair Work Agency is set to dramatically change the landscape of employment law enforcement. With unprecedented powers to recover underpayments and initiate tribunal claims on behalf of employees, your business could face significant financial penalties and legal battles if you're not fully compliant.
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The Employment Rights Act 2025 is the biggest legislative shift in years. You need more than just news; you need actionable tools. CIPD HR-inform Pro provides the technical breakdowns, the model policies, and the strategic roadmaps to help you guide your leadership team through these changes with confidence.