The Employment Rights Act 2025 will introduce a range of changes to trade union and industrial action law, including repeals of existing legislation, new protections for workers and union representatives, and reforms to recognition and balloting processes. This page brings together the resources and information you need to understand what’s changing, when it’s happening and how to comply with the changes.

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Useful resources on working with trade unions

Explore resources to help you comply with law changes and work effectively with trade unions. 

Please note, these resources outlines the current legislation that governs trade unions and should still be followed until any changes come into force (expected dates are outlined on the Employment Rights Act 2025 tracker). We will update the content once any changes are enforced.

Factsheet on trade unions

Introduction to working with trade unions

Factsheet on trade unions

Guidance on working with trade unions

Advice on how to work effectively with trade unions

Guidance on working with trade unions

Employment law overview on trade unions

Overview of current legal requirements relating to trade unions

Employment law information on trade unions

Survey findings on trade union relations

This report explores employer and employee perspectives on trade union representation and relations

UK industrial relations: A future with trade unions

Co-created by Acas and CIPD: learn to build constructive relationships with trade unions and embed effective partnership approaches into your organisation

Working effectively with trade unions learning course

Disclaimer 

Please note: While every care has been taken in compiling this content, CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice. 

  • All employment law