27 states have banned union-security agreements by passing so-called "right to work" laws. In these states, it is up to each employee at a workplace to decide whether or not to join the union and pay dues, even though all workers are protected by the collective bargaining agreement negotiated by the union.

Trades Union Congress (TUC)

Labor unions charge dues to pay the salaries of union leaders and workers during a strike. And unfortunately, some unions spend union dues on six-figure salaries for leaders and luxurious headquarters. Other drawbacks of labor union membership include less autonomy, workplace tension, and slower advancement.

By law, any worker is allowed to join a trade union, and your employer can't punish you for joining up. Equally, you don't have to join a union at all if you don't want to. You can join any union you're eligible for – that usually means any union that represents your industry.

Employers are not entitled to know whether you are in a union. You should certainly not be asked questions at an interview about your union membership, views or activity. Since 2004, Employers have not been allowed to offer incentives to you to leave a union, for example a higher pay rise to non union employees.

No. Joining a union is a legal right, and you do not need to tell your employer that you have joined one.

Unite is a leading trade union in the health sector, with over 100,000 members across all occupations and professional groups. We work tirelessly to campaign against the current threats to the NHS and to support, protect and advance all our members interests in health.