Each trade union member pays a subscription. The amount varies from union to union and is normally set at different levels according to the amount people earn. It is usually between 5 and 8 a month.
Some unions reduce the fees for unemployed members.
People pay their subscription fees in different ways. It may be collected by direct debit from your bank account, deducted directly from your wages or paid in cash or by cheque to your union representative or full time official. In exchange members receive the benefits of representation, negotiation, protection and other services from their union.