Trade union reform consultations
As part of the employment right bill, employers can respond to two government consultations relating to trade union rights.
Consultation 1. The duty to inform workers of their right to join a union and how it should work in practice
The consultation is seeking views on how this new duty can be implemented effectively while minimising the burden on employers. This includes details on:
- what form the statement should take
- what content should be included
- the manner in which the statement must be delivered
- the frequency with which the statement must be reissued after the beginning of employment.
Have your say on the proposal
Although NHS Employers are not responding on behalf of employers, you may wish to respond individually or on behalf of your trust.
Make Work Pay: duty to inform workers of right to join a union
The closing date for responses is 11:59pm on Thursday 18 December 2025.
Consultation 2. How the new legal framework for trade unions’ right of access into the workplace should work in practice.
The employment rights bill will introduce a new framework for trade unions to access workplaces physically, and to communicate with workers in person or digitally.
This includes details on:
- how unions will request access
- how employers respond
- factors the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) will take into account when determining whether access should be granted and on what terms
- how the CAC is to come to decisions on the values of fines issued for breaches of access agreements.
Have your say on the proposal
Respond to the consultation - Make Work Pay: trade union right of access
The closing date for responses is 11:59pm on Thursday 18 December 2025.
Further information
- Further details on Make Work Pay proposals can be found on the GOV.UK website.
- Read the July 2025 update on the employment rights bill which includes a roadmap and actions for employers.
