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ARTICLE · 14 SEPTEMBER 2026

Employment Edit: 3 September 2026

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From 30 October 2026, trade unions will gain new statutory rights to seek both digital and physical access to workplaces under the government's Make Work Pay plan. This significant change will affect almost all employers, as unions can request access even without formal recognition or existing membership within the workforce.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
Katie Wooller
Katie Wooller

Trade union right of access

One of the government’s main objectives under its Make Work Pay plan is to enhance collective voice in the workplace, predominantly through strengthened trade union rights. On that theme, a major change is coming next month – from 30 October 2026, trade unions will have a new statutory right to seek access (digital and/or physical) to workplaces. Almost all employers could be affected as a union will be able to request access even if it is not recognised by the employer and has little or no existing membership or presence within the workforce.

The below webinar and articles focus on what employers need to know about this significant new right and how you can prepare.

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