Complaint of Dismissal for Union Activity Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to challenge an automatically unfair dismissal connected to trade union membership, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong complaint of dismissal for union activity should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• State the dismissal is automatically unfair under section 152
• Describe the union activities
• Confirm there is no qualifying period for this claim
• Warn of tribunal claim
• Invite reinstatement or ACAS conciliation

Why dismissal for union activity is automatically unfair

Dismissal connected to trade union membership or activities is automatically unfair under UK law — this means there's no minimum length of service required to claim, unlike ordinary unfair dismissal.

What to include before you send it

• A clear timeline connecting your union membership or activity to the dismissal
• The employer's stated reason for dismissal, and why you believe this isn't the genuine reason
• Any evidence of the connection — timing, comments made, or treatment of other union members
• A clear statement that you intend to pursue an automatic unfair dismissal claim

Why timing evidence is often central to these claims

A dismissal occurring shortly after joining a union, becoming a representative, or engaging in a specific union activity is significant circumstantial evidence — while not conclusive on its own, this pattern is exactly what tribunals look for when assessing whether the stated reason for dismissal was genuine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need 2 years' service to bring this specific claim?
No — automatic unfair dismissal for union membership or activities has no minimum service requirement, unlike standard unfair dismissal claims.

What if my employer says the dismissal was for an unrelated reason like poor performance?
If you can show the stated reason is not genuine, or that union activity was the real underlying cause, this strengthens an automatic unfair dismissal claim significantly.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Email / Phone]
[Name / Job Title, e.g. Managing Director]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Postcode]
[Date]

Dear [Name],

Subject: Appeal against dismissal – dismissal for trade union activity

I am appealing against my dismissal as [Job Title], confirmed in your letter dated [Date].

The reason given was [reason]. I believe the real reason is my union membership and activities as a [member / representative] of [Union], in particular [e.g. organising a workplace meeting on 12 October 2026]. [Evidence, e.g. I was dismissed [number] days after that meeting, and my manager said [comment].]

Under section 152 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, dismissal for union membership or for taking part in union activities at an appropriate time is automatically unfair. There is no qualifying period of employment for this claim.

Please hold an appeal hearing, heard by a manager not involved in the dismissal, and send me the date and time. I will be accompanied by [Name of Representative].

I ask you to reinstate me. If this is not resolved, I intend to bring an employment tribunal claim and will start Acas early conciliation, which I am open to using to settle this.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]