Unions aren't just about collective bargaining. A union member is very much an individual and you matter. You have access to free legal represenation for starters, and includes such extras as free will writing.
Because employers try it on. I was always a union member and had to use the union a few times to check that a contract is legal. Contracts can be changed at a whim.
Once we leave the EU, employees rights will go right down the drain. It's one of the reasons the Tories are so keen. Sorry to...
They probably didn't consider your personal emergency, as serious enough for you to miss a day's work. It is tough, but that's how some firms work.
I found I couldn't have a day off for my StepMum's funeral because she wasn't considered to be a close relative. I had to use annual leave instead.