Trade Unions and the Representation of Non-Standard Workers, 2001-2002

The project examined trade union representation of workers with non-standard contracts; i.e. part-timers, workers with fixed-term contracts and freelance workers. The purpose of the study was to identify the extent to which unions have developed policy on behalf of these groups and seek to recruit them and provide representation services. It also aimed to identify the correlates of union action. To secure these objectives, two questionnaire surveys were completed, the results of which are included in the dataset. The first survey was conducted in 2001 and was directed at all trade unions in Britain with more than 3,000 members. The second survey was conducted in 2002 and was sent to all paid union officers, employed by 19 UK unions. A total of 1,600 questionnaires were distributed. While the prime purpose of the surveys was to examine union representation of non-standard workers, a condition of access was that additional questions should be included on union recruitment and organising, attempts to secure recognition from employers, and on the extent of collective bargaining on equal pay and work-life balance. The content of the dataset is therefore quite broad and may be of use to researchers investigating a range of trade union activities.<br>