UVW members Know your rights!

strike faqs

Why strike❓
If bosses refuse to negotiate we’re left with little choice. Strikes show employers we’re united and serious about our demands. And strikes work!

⚖️ Is It legal❓
Yes – this is official strike action protected under UK law.

📃 Is it still legal if the union isn’t recognised by the employer❓

Yes, recognition has nothing to do with your right to strike or the lawfulness of the strike.

📅 What happens on strike day❓
• Do not work

• Join the picket or rally

🚫 Can I be disciplined for striking❓
NO! When it’s official and lawful industrial action(as this one is!) you’re legally protected from being punished.

🧑‍🏫 Can I strike If I’m…
✅ Part-time
✅ On probation
✅ Zero-hour/bank staff
✅ Close to retirement
✅ Just joined UVW
✅ Didn’t vote or voted NO
➡️ YES, YOU CAN!

🤒 What if I am off sick during the strike❓
Stay home and get better!

🏖️ What if I’m on holiday during the strike❓
Enjoy yourself!

💬 Do I have to tell my manager if I intend to strike❓
NO. You don’t have to say anything.

💷 Will I get paid if I strike❓
No – but you can apply to UVW’s Hardship Fund for support if you need it.

🤝 Can non-UVW members join the strike❓
Yes, if they’re covered by the ballot. But they can’t get our representation. Best to JOIN UVW now!

🗳️ Who decides if or when we strike❓

Members do. UVW holds members’ meetings to democratically decide on strike action.

✊ Will we win if we strike❓

If we fight, we can win. If we don’t fight, we will always lose!

📣 Questions? Need Support?

📞 07884553443

STRIKE BALLOT – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Know your rights. Use your voice. Every vote counts!

1. Why do we have to vote to strike❓
Because UK law says we can only strike after a formal postal vote

2. How do we vote to strike❓
You’ll get a ballot paper by post – tick the box next to YES, seal it in the pre-paid envelope, and post it back ASAP 📮

3. Can we just vote on WhatsApp or in a meeting❓
No – it has to be by postal vote, run by an independent body to be legally valid.

4. When will I receive my ballot❓
Ballots are usually received a few days after the opening date of the ballot – check your post daily 📨

5. When do I have to return it❓
Send it back as soon as possible – every day counts! ⏳

6. Do I need a stamp❓
No – the envelope is already paid for 💌

7. What if I don’t get my ballot❓
Tell UVW right away! We can request a replacement 📞

8. What if my address changed recently ❓
Let UVW know immediately so we can update it 🏡

9. Do I have to tell my manager how I voted ❓
No – your vote is confidential 🤫

10. Do I have to vote YES ❓
It’s your choice – but a strong YES means more power 💪

11. Can non-UVW members vote ❓
No – but they can join now and still get a vote if it’s before the deadline 🧾

12. Can I get in trouble or sacked for voting❓
No way – voting is your legal right and it is illegal to punish or sack you for it ✊

13. What if others vote NO or don’t vote❓
We need 50% turnout and a YES majority – EVERY VOTE COUNTS 🗳️📢