Pay – it is one of the main reasons why many of us go to work.
And defending and improving members’ pay is one of UNISON’s main tasks. But it’s a bigger topic than many might think. Find out more about the issue and what you are entitled to.
Adoption pay
If you adopt a child you may be eligible for adoption pay. Adoption pay is paid by your employer and is provided to help you take time off work so you can be with your child. You can receive adoption pay for up to 39 weeks.
Death in service
Death in service payments are paid to your family or chosen beneficiary from your pension fund if you die before you retire. In tough economic times, death in service benefits may be considered an easy cost-cutting target. UNISON is committed to protecting them.
Knowledge Base: Equal pay
People doing the same job or work of equal value should get the same or equal pay; but in many cases they don’t, even though though the law says they should. UNISON actively campaigns for fair and equal pay.
Grading claims
UNISON wants to see fair pay and grading structures used by all employers. One of our most important roles as a trade union is helping our members to get the pay they deserve.
Low pay
Low pay affects many UNISON members. Although there is a national minimum wage in place, there are still many members who are living in poverty. UNISON campaigns for a living wage as a minimum.
Maternity pay
Employers provide maternity pay to employees after giving birth. Statutory maternity pay is a legal entitlement and some employers may offer more than this, in what is called ‘enhanced maternity pay’, as a contractual right.
Minimum wage and national living wage
The national minimum wage sets minimum hourly rates that employers must pay workers in the UK. We campaign for an equal minimum wage and a higher minimum wage.
Paternity pay
Ordinary paternity pay is a paid allowance that gives fathers and individuals responsible for bringing up a child with the mother time off from work so they can be with the child after birth or adoption.
Pay negotiation and bargaining
Negotiating and bargaining for better working conditions and pay can take place between an employer and union members when informal agreements fail. Negotiating and bargaining is one way that UNISON works to improve working conditions for members.