Unions in the UK are generally organised on an occupational basis, so there are unions for teachers, textile workers, engineers, and so on. However, there are a lot of exceptions, and a lot of general unions who will recruit anyone in their industry, regardless of occupation.

Some UK unions are manual only, or non-manual only, whilst others recruit both groups.

If you are employed in a large unionised company or the state sector then a union representative will normally contact you when you start work.

If this is not the case, then most reputable Trade Unions in the UK are affiliated to the Trades Union Congress, who will assist you to find the right union for you.

Their phone number is: 0207-636-4030 and www.tuc.org.uk. This website includes the contact details for the 70 or so unions affiliated to the TUC.