What is a trade union?

A trade union is an organisation made up of workers who come together to support one another and collectively call for change in their workplace. Here at the Communication Workers’ Union (CWU) we help workers organise across the postal, telecommunications, technology and digital sectors. Including many of whom work in Customer Service roles like COps.

We are a campaigning union and work hard to get our voice – our members voice – heard on a variety of issues such as fair pay, pensions, just terms and conditions, health and safety, flexible working and equal opportunities. Our primary objective is to protect and advance the interests of our members in their workplace. Trade unions are independent of any employer and solely funded by the membership.

Why join the United Allied Tech Workers branch?

Our Branch is specifically for workers in Tech, by Tech workers themselves, we are a national virtual branch, meaning wherever you are in the UK, if you work in an office, remotely or hybrid you can access and be directly involved. UTAW represents your interests in the workplace and protects you and other workers from overwork, underpay, poor working conditions, bullying bosses, and the innumerable exploitative practices of the tech industry.

As a member you can call on the union branch at any time to help you get the rights you want in your workplace, to advise and support you in workplace grievances, or to enforce your existing legal protections.

We know that we can achieve more together than we can alone. By joining a trade union, you are helping to grow a movement that promotes the values of solidarity, equality, and dignity at work.

How much does it cost?

The cost is £8.33 a month for a full time worker, less if you work under 30 hrs.

Where does this money go? Your subs help to pay your Representatives to undergo professional training in representational work, if you need advice, support and assistance, they will have a good knowledge of your rights at work and employment law. Some of your Monzo reps are already receiving training. Additionally, members have access free legal advice on both work and outside work issues. Educational and training opportunities, access to information on equalities, health and safety and a range of discounted benefits.

Is Cops Council the same thing?

Every employer is legally required to have an employee forum but the catch is they only need to be used to inform and consult. A trade union acts independently from the employer specifically for the workers (you elect who represents you, and you get to vote on what issues are most important to you and your colleagues), unlike an employee forum a legally recognised union has the right to negotiate.

Will having a Union harm Monzo?

Many workplaces have unions across the UK and most work in close partnership with the employers to ensure that decisions made are in the best interests of the business and its workers. Many unionised businesses out perform their non-unionised workplaces. Many employers say that their workforce are integral to their successes, unionised workplaces put this sentiment into practice. Our union are positive that we can work with Monzo to bring about positive agreements.

I have Concerns about strikes

The media is full of stories about striking workers right now and this can be concerning. The worker’s currently striking are only doing so as a last resort, they have tried talking to the employers numerous times and throughout the strikes continue to try to get round the table to negotiate an agreement. All workers legally must be balloted, and they need to have the majority vote yes for this type of action to go ahead. We want to work with Monzo Management to find positive solutions that work for both the future

How can I help?

Our union in Monzo is organised and run by workers from Monzo, we will always welcome new members and if you would like to get more active, even in a small way, we would love hear from you. However don’t delay, start today by joining our union and encouraging all your colleagues to join too.