Frequently Asked Questions
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About Unions & NPSWU
A trade union is an organisation formed by workers to protect their rights, improve working conditions, and advocate for better wages and benefits.
NPSWU stands for the National Public Service Workers Union. We represent and fight for the rights of both public sector and private sector workers in South Africa.
NPSWU was officially established in 1962 to advocate for fair labour practices and improved conditions for public service workers.
A union is a collective of workers united to negotiate with employers on issues like wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Unions give you protection, a voice in the workplace, and access to legal and negotiation support in times of dispute.
You can join by completing our membership form online or through one of our regional offices.
We have regional offices across South Africa. Visit www.npswu.org/contact for full details.
NPSWU primarily represents workers in the health, education, and public service sectors and also private sectors.
Have a free funeral cover when you join the membership. A subscription of R100 entitles you to a family funeral cover. We focus on direct member representation, timely response, and grassroot empowerment within public services.
To collectively bargain, protect worker rights, and promote fair, safe, and equal work environments.
Membership & Forms
Visit our Membership section at npswu.org/membership and fill the form online or download it directly.
The NPSWU monthly union fee is R100 and you get a free funeral cover with that R100 fee which covers main member, your spouses and your children under 21 years/25 if schooling.
Yes, our website allows for digital applications. Simply fill in the online form here and submit required documents.
We have free funeral cover of up to R15 000 and we are politically non-affiliated. Our constitution scope covers both public and private sectors.
Yes, part-time and contract workers are welcome to join and enjoy full support.
There’s no need because membership deductions will appear on your payslip once processed.
You’ll receive a confirmation message and start receiving union support once processed and start paying that R100 for joining membership.
Workers' Rights & Employment Law
It is a key South African law that governs collective bargaining, strikes, and fair labour practices.
You are entitled to fair wages, safe working conditions, leave, and protection against unfair dismissal.
It promotes equality in the workplace and prevents unfair discrimination.
Contact your union representative or report the matter to the Department of Labour.
No. According to labour law, you are entitled to payment for any unused leave days.
It sets the minimum employment standards including hours of work, overtime, and leave.
Jobs that are not regulated by formal contracts, often lacking benefits and legal protection.
They are protected under the same labour laws and unions such as NPSWU advocate for their rights.
You can approach your union or file a case at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
It ensures all individuals, regardless of race or gender, get fair access to job opportunities and promotion.
Worker-Related Search Queries
Check platforms like the Department of Labour website, and follow NPSWU’s social media pages for updates.
A general worker performs non-specialized duties such as cleaning, maintenance, or assisting skilled workers.
All employees are workers, but not all workers have a formal contract. Employees have more legal rights.
Yes, it is celebrated on May 1st each year.
To honour the contributions and struggles of workers and the trade union movement.
Annually on May 1st in South Africa.
UIF & Employer Disputes
Visit the UIF online portal or go through your employer’s HR department.
Report to the Department of Labour or seek help from NPSWU.
Check your payslip or request a breakdown from HR. You have a right to this information.
No. UIF is only for those unemployed, on maternity leave, or sick leave.
An employer is a person or organisation that hires and pays workers to perform a job.
Collective Bargaining & Workplace Representation
It is the process where unions and employers negotiate wages, working hours, and other conditions.
It is guided by the Labour Relations Act and applies to unions, employers, and bargaining councils.
It involves nurses negotiating as a group for better pay, working hours, and patient ratios.
Through scheduled engagements, dispute processes, and participation in bargaining councils.
We assign a union representative or legal advisor to guide and represent you during your case.
Legal advice, direct representation, written submissions, and emotional support.
Union & Legal Support
Yes. A trained representative will assist and attend the hearing with you.
We offer dispute resolution, unfair dismissal support, CCMA representation, and legal advice.
A unionist is a member or leader of a trade union who advocates for workers’ rights.