Trade Union Reform

New Rights from October 2026

On the 30th October 2026, UK employers must provide all workers with a written statement informing them of their legal right to join a trade union.

This requires employers to give workers a written statement advising them of their right to join a union, delivered at the start of employment alongside the worker’s written statement of particulars or contract. It is expected that the Regulations will require annual updates or reminders.

The duty applies to all employers in England, Wales, and Scotland, regardless of size or whether a union is recognised. Every worker is entitled to receive this statement.

The exact content of the statement will be confirmed in time; however, it is expected that this will include:

• A brief overview of the functions of a trade union.
• A summary of statutory rights for union members, including protection from detriment for joining or not joining a union.
• A list of trade unions recognised by the employer, if any.

Employers will need to update key documents to comply with the duty, including written statements of particulars or contracts, induction materials and staff handbooks.

Trade unions also gain strengthened rights from this date. This right is to access workplaces, both physical and digital, to meet, represent, recruit, and organise workers. The premise behind this is to allow for enhanced representation and to promote engagement and collaboration in the workplace for better industrial relations.

If you are unsure whether your new starter paperwork already covers this new written statement duty, contact Solutions for HR today.