The Union Difference

How Unions Benefit Employers

"Employers with unionized workplaces know that unions benefit employees and employers.

Workplaces with unions have more "high performance" employees.
In fact, almost half of employers believe unions find ways of improving overall workplace performance.
Employers in unionized workplaces value having a union to act as a consulting body with employees.
Unionized workers are generally happier with their jobs, staff turnover decreases, and qualified and experienced staff retention is improved, which is critical in the health sector where quality of care and trusted relationships are success factors for workers, patients, and employers."

- Winning at Work, Trade Union Congress, 2001.

Workers' Testimonials

"Having a union allows us to enter into dialogue with management about workers rights, without fear of repercussions. I feel that I have job security, respect and support when dealing with staff/management issues. An employee should never feel threatened or in fear of losing their job... With the union we can relax and enjoy what we do."



"The health care environment has been undergoing constant change over the past several years. The advent of LHINs is only one recent example. Often clinicians have little knowledge or experience about how these larger system changes will end up impacting on their work life on the front lines. Having a union means that I have representation at an organizational level to monitor these big changes, their impact on my work life, and my job security. I have the confidence of knowing that I have a voice that speaks for me and keeps my interests secure for me."



"Having the backing of the union allows employees to do their work in an environment that ensures fairness and security. It provides protection and safety particularly uncertain economic times."



"As cleaners it is very hard to survive on the little money we are paid. The company does not respect our hard work. Together we have the power to stand up to management and demand better wages and work conditions. That is why we organized a union in our workplace and must continue to organize until all Ability cleaners are covered by a collective agreement. Together we can raise standards across the cleaning industry and earn the dignity we deserve."



"Unionzing is good, it gives senior staff protection. The union is also our voice to the president and CEO who can help make our work better and give us the respect we deserve."



"I've been struggling as a cleaner for 10 years. When my co-workers and I at Ability decided to form a union the company tried to pressure us and keep us from uniting, but we stuck together and fought for our rights and won. Like our brothers sisters in Quebec, we know this is the first step to raising standards."



"When it comes to infection control and safety, we are the first line of defense. Janitors recover valuable computers, wallets, and electronics daily. We will be the first to spot suspicious activity individuals. Therefore, low turndown and committee janitors are key factors in building safety and security. The key for low turndown and committed workers is union."