What makes union membership right for you?

“I can do it all by myself.” If that sounds like something you’d say, then thank you for your time but you should probably move on to the next article.

If you’re still reading, then you’ll be pleased to know help is at hand when you need it. Trade unions are all about supporting their members. Whether that’s personal support when times are tough or the power of the collective voice when influencing nationally, it’s good to have someone there.

Take school leadership as an example, it’s a tough environment and support is usually welcome. Primary school leader Ms H thanked her union for “helping me with what was certainly the loneliest, most challenging, but often brilliantly rewarding profession.”

Fellow members agreed. One said, “It’s always reassuring to know that someone has your back.” Another adds, “It’s been good to know that help has always only been a phone call away!”

The range of benefits for members can be huge. Specialist services including individual legal support and representation, expert advice on pay, conditions and pensions, access to a counselling line, providing day-to-day information, advice and guidance, offering high-quality professional development, and much, much more.

Quite often, you can even get your membership fees back in value-added services from rewards or affinity schemes, including independent financial advice, investment planning, and discounted insurance, as well as services for your workplace such as online budget management and up-to-the-minute health and safety guidance.

Ideally a combined trade union and professional association, such as NAHT, gives you the best of both worlds, ensuring you’re supported throughout your career.

Become part of the NAHT community. Join now online at www.naht.org.uk/join, call us on 01444 472414, or email joinus@naht.org.uk.