Acas Code of Practice on time off rights for trade union representatives is now in force

Acas’ Code of Practice on time off for trade union duties and activities came into effect on 1 January 2010. The new Code of Practice replaces the 2003 version.

The Code of Practice aims to help improve the relationship between employers and trade unions. It has been updated to provide further guidance on (1) the provision of time off for the training of trade union representatives; (2) the provision of time off so that trade union representatives can carry out their duties and take part in union activities; (3) the responsibilities of employers and trade unions to ensure that time off provisions work effectively; (4) the advantages of employers and trade unions establishing formal agreements on time off; and (5) resolving disputes concerning time off arrangements.

The Code is accompanied by two non-statutory guides on managing time off for union representatives and non-union employee representatives.

Employers should be aware that while a breach of the Code does not automatically make them liable to legal proceedings, its provisions are admissible in evidence in employment tribunal proceedings.