Frequently Asked Questions

How much will it cost me?

• Union membership is great value. How much you pay depends on the hours you work and the company you work for. To find out your rate use the handy calculator to the left hand side to calculate your rate of membership. Alternatively please complete the application form or for an instant answer contact us in-confidence on our freephone helpline on 0800 731 7434.
• We aim to keep our rates consistent across all industries in which we represent members.

Do I need to join for a minimum period?

• No, but you never know when you might need a helping hand.
• We offer continued membership even if you change employers.

Why should I join a union?

• In times of recession with job cuts leading to a heavier work load, less money a union will continue to stand up for your employment rights and fight for job security and to protect your pay, terms and conditions.
• Support, protection, advice and guidance at work
• Local and national representation at disciplinary / grievance interviews and employment tribunals.
• As a CWU member you will enjoy being part of a growing community of like-minded individuals who are looking to build a positive future at your workplace.

What do I get as a member?

• CWU offers members a range of services and real benefits from an industry specific magazine to special offers on hotels and travel, insurance discounts and family protection. Browse our benefits to see all you stand to gain from joining the union.

Can I still become a member if the CWU is not recognised by the company I work for?

• Yes you can! Everyone has the right to join a trade union whether the union is recognised by the company or not. In fact, the more people who join a union the better the chance of gaining recognition in your workplace.
• As a member working in an unrecognised company, you will still receive all the benefits, support and representation as members working in recognised companies.

I work part-time / contracted, how will this affect my membership rates?

• CWU membership rates are calculated pro-rata based on the number of hours you work and for which company. We represent full and part time staff, people on contracts and agency workers.
• Fill out an application form to find out what your membership rate will be or contact us in-confidence on our freephone helpline for direct assistance on 0800 731 7434.

Who can join the CWU?

• With over 215,000 members in postal, telecoms and financial services industries across the UK and Channel Islands, the CWU the largest union in the communications industry. Download a list of companies in which we have members. If you work for any of these companies then the CWU is the union for you.
• If your company is not on the list but is associated with the postal, telecoms and financial services industries we want to establish a union presence in your workplace. By joining the CWU you can assist us in creating a union presence in your workplace and benefit from on-site support, guidance and representation as well as a range of services available free to members.

I have been unfairly dismissed / sacked, how can the CWU help me?

• Whatever happens to you at work - you are not alone.
• Our on-site local reps are trained in employment and industrial law and are well placed to offer you legal advice, guidance and provide the best representation you need in the event of dismissal, discipline or grievance interviews / consultation.
• You must be a member to benefit from CWU representation so join us now.

My partner and I are expecting/adopting a baby, what maternity/paternity rights am I entitled to?

• Maternity, paternity and adoptive leave rights differ across companies. Everyone is entitled to statutory pay and time off, but you may be eligible for more than the statutory minimum.
• Our reps know your rights when it comes to maternity, paternity, and adoptive leave, flexible working and pensions and will offer you the support you need, when you need it.

Who are the people to represent me and how do I know they have my best interests at heart?

• CWU Reps are local individuals with a passion for protecting and promoting fair and safe employment standards and first-hand experience of your industry. They are dedicated to employment interests in your workplace and industry. You too can become a rep if you would like to be more involved.
• Democratic elections give you a say in who your local reps are as well as the National Officers elected to represent and negotiate on your behalf at national level. Find out more about the union structure, objectives and major campaigns currently underway.

Can't find what you are looking for? Please contact us in-confidence on our freephone helpline on 0800 731 7434 or email joinunion@cwu.org and we will gladly offer you any professional advice or information you seek.

The strength of the union is its members.
The stronger your union, the stronger your voice

Want to join the union? Complete the application form and return it via email to joinunion@cwu.org or post:

FREEPOST RRGT-GURE-TXHX
CWU Organising Department,
London, SW19 1RX

For any advice and guidance please contact us on freephone 0800 731 7434.