Trade Union and Industrial Relations Expertise for Businesses
At Clarkslegal LLP, we recognise the importance of fostering positive and collaborative relationships between employers and trade unions. We understand that when managed well, a unionised workforce can be a powerful asset to a business. Equally, we understand the complexities that can sometimes arise when managing a unionised workforce. Our specialist team is dedicated to providing proactive, strategic legal advice that helps businesses navigate the complexities of industrial relations and trade union engagement. Whether you’re already unionised or anticipate union involvement in the future, we offer expert guidance to ensure a balanced approach that promotes harmonious working relationships whilst helping safeguard your business interests and ensuing smooth operations.
We offer extensive support across a wide range of industrial relations matters, providing tailored legal solutions that keep your business compliant, secure, and on the front foot. Here’s how we can assist:
“An exceptional balance of expertise and personality.”
Legal 500
Expertise
There are two licence categories:
- ‘Worker’ – for skilled or long-term employment
- ‘Temporary worker’ – for specific types of temporary employment
There is a fee associated with applying for a sponsorship licence which varies depending on the type of licence and the size of your organisation. Before the application can be processed, this fee must be paid.
Your business must appoint ‘Key Personnel’ to specific roles as part of your sponsor licence application. This includes:
- Authorising Officer – most senior and competent person responsible for the actions of staff and representatives who use the online Sponsorship Management System (SMS)
- Key Contact – main point of contact with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
- Level 1 User – responsible for all day-to-day management of your licence via the SMS
Your sponsorship licence application must be completed online and you must include detailed information about your company and the roles you intend to sponsor. It is crucial to include the mandatory information and documents so that your sponsorship licence is awarded with an A-rating, which is required to assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a migrant worker.
Some personal data, referred to as ‘special category data’ is treated as being more sensitive, and therefore requires a greater level of protection. This is information about the data subject’s:
- Race
- Ethnic origin
- Political opinions
- Religious or philosophical beliefs
- Sexual orientation or sex life
- Genetic data
- Biometric data
- Trade union membership
- Health data
Information about criminal convictions and offences is also treated as requiring greater protection.
Insight into Recent and Upcoming Changes in Industrial Relations Law
As part of our commitment to staying ahead of industry developments, we provide businesses with invaluable insight into the recent proposed changes by the Labour government, which are set to significantly impact industrial relations law in the UK. Having participated in advisory panels and consultations, we have a unique understanding of how these changes could affect businesses, trade unions, and the wider workforce. We offer forward-thinking advice to help businesses navigate these potential changes and prepare for the future of industrial relations in the UK.
Why Choose Us?
With years of experience advising both large and small businesses, we understand that every company has its unique needs when it comes to industrial relations. Whether you are a large employer with a complex workforce or a business facing union recognition for the first time, we offer bespoke advice and solutions to meet your specific challenges.
Our industrial relations lawyers take a proactive approach, giving you clear and concise advice on managing your unionised workforce and mitigating risk. We work closely with your HR and senior management teams to ensure that your business remains compliant, efficient, and prepared for whatever the future may bring.
Contact Us Today
If you need expert advice on industrial relations and trade union matters, contact Clarkslegal LLP today. Let our experienced team help you manage your unionised workforce and stay ahead of any legal changes that may affect your business.
