Prospect's National Trust branch

Building a new branch

The National Trust is a new membership area for Prospect. We have had a number of members there for some time, but until 2003 the Trust did not recognise any union for negotiating purposes. In September 2002, the Trust's 4,600 permanent staff were given the chance to vote on how they wanted their interests to be represented at work. They voted for trade union recognition.

In April 2003 Prospect signed a recognition agreement with the Trust - this gives Prospect the responsibility to negotiate terms and conditions and to represent the interests of all permanent staff.

We have organised a new National Trust branch, building a structure that delivers the best possible service to members and to the Trust itself.

The branch is broken down into 11 sections, based on the Trust's geographical regions. Prospect has a full time negotiator for the branch who is an expert in industrial relations and employment law. At regional level, members also have access to support from a locally-based officer and a designated union organiser.

But an effective union is more than just professional support. It is essential that we have a strong network of local representatives drawn from the membership, who volunteer to be our people ‘on the ground’. Their knowledge is invaluable. They are experts in the workings of the Trust and the culture and practices of the different regions, and can develop the day-to-day, constructive working relationships with Area and Property Managers which will be essential to effective industrial relations in the Trust.

If you want to find out more about becoming a rep you can download a copy of our leaflet.

If you work for the National Trust and you would like to know more about Prospect, please contact us or visit our separate website fairnessatnationaltrust.org.uk.