To join or not to join...

[Ulysses]

Official start on Monday as a part time (20 hrs) OPG.

Never been in a union before so just wondering what people think of the pro's and con's.

Am I right in thinking that the agreements reached by CWU with RM apply to all staff be they union members or not? I appreciate non-members would not effectively get union 'backing' in the event of a dispute. But is this really true given potential impact on all employees affected by the event?

I am not really a political person and my position has been has been strengthened by Corbyn-mania over the past weeks.

[motherhubbard]

When you start with RM you won't be on the minimum wage and there is a very simple reason for that - the trade union movement.
Statistically we are better paid, better protected and safer than workers in non unionised professions because of our trade union.

On top of that you become part of the glorious history involving the matchstick girls through to the dockers and the miners.
And all for a few quid a week.

To join or not to join - you would have to be a fool not to.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Never been in a union before so just wondering what people think of the pro's and con's.

Pros: You'll have an experienced postie/rep in your corner if you cock up or get disciplined.
Free Legal advice
Free employment advice
Various discounts for being a member.


Cons: You'll have to pay less than £3 a week


As a non member you should be treated exactly the same as a CWU member in any strike, if Royal Mail single you out as a non member they are breaking the law.

[Newbie001]

Most new start's get, well I won't say shafted but that's a good description. You'll be amazed at what you're managers or Work place coaches won't tell you. And full-time posties are under extreme pressure so tend to look after themselves to a degree. In my own personal opinion for £2 odd a week it is worth it.

[wannabeek]

Yes, I'd agree with that. For an old-timer who knows the score and is able to fight his own corner then membership may not be so necessary. As a new starter who is virtually guaranteed to be taken advantage of and lied to, I would say that membership is probably absolutely vital. Free legal advice too - just a meeting with a solicitor and a couple of letters from him would probably cost you more than membership over the year.

[Mortdike123]

Tbh, I wouldn't join. You will get bullied and harassed, your overtime WILL be underpaid and you will be totally humiliated(in various ways)

Welcome to Royal Mail

[bogstandard]

you dont need legal cover on your insurance saving you whatever you pay at the moment