These guides are for employers, trade unions, trade union representatives and non-union employee representatives. They cover:
- the different roles representatives can have
- rights to time off, training and facilities for representatives
Changes to these guides
The Employment Rights Act 2025 means a number of changes for trade unions and representatives. Some changes happened in February and April 2026. The rest will happen in October 2026.
Most advice in these guides is still correct. But some parts are out of date. The guides also refer to employment tribunal fees that no longer apply.
We'll publish updated advice in October 2026.
Guide on trade union representation
Trade union representation in the workplace (PDF, 448KB)
Trade union representation in the workplace (Word version, 378KB)
Published March 2014
Guide on non-union representation
Non-union representation in the workplace (PDF, 4MB)
Non-union representation in the workplace (Word version, 431KB)
Published March 2014
How to use the guides
You can use the guides alongside the:
- Acas Code of Practice on time off for trade union duties and activities
- Acas Code of Practice on disclosure of information to trade unions for collective bargaining purposes
If you need the guides in a more accessible format, email digital@acas.org.uk
Related training
Acas and the CIPD have designed training for employers on how to work effectively with trade unions.