trade unions

[edeneye]

how long do i need to be in a trade union before i can be represented

[CheekyChops]

It might depend on the rules of the particular union but most of the ones I've been in have represented people straight away.

[factor-fiction]

... although some unions might not be happy if a worker doesn't join initially and then tries to join and get help as soon as they have an issue they want help with

[thugulike]

You can be represented straight away but you probably need 13 weeks membership prior to an incident to benefit from legal representation, ie counsel at an employment tribunal.