Why might an employee join a trade union?

An employee might join a trade union primarily to gain access to various benefits and support, which often include information about sick pay, workers' rights, and other essential aspects of employment. Trade unions provide members with resources and advice regarding their entitlements, including sick pay schemes that might not be widely known or accessible to individual employees. By being part of a union, members can also ensure that they have collective bargaining power to negotiate better sick pay provisions on their behalf.

Joining a trade union empowers employees by equipping them with valuable knowledge about their rights and the various benefits available in their workplaces, which is crucial for their overall well-being and job security. Access to such information is a significant reason many workers choose to affiliate with a trade union.