Community represents workers in the textile, knitwear, footwear leather working and carpet weaving industries
Community was formed in 2004 when the National Union of Knitwear, Footwear and Apparel Trades (KFAT) merged with the Iron and Steel Trades Confederation (ISTC).
KFAT had one of the longest histories of any union in the United Kingdom. One of KFAT’s original member unions was formed in 1873 and other sections began as early as 1776.
With this history, Community is the union to represent workers in the textile, knitwear, footwear, garment and leather trades.
Members of Community can rely on experienced union officials and shop stewards to defend their rights.
Community has a better ratio of full time officers to staff than any other union.
Community is active in the workplace over terms and conditions, health and safety and many other issues. Members are covered by Community benefits such as strike and lockout protection, an accrued bereavement benefit, a convalescence benefit, third party discounts and legal support for workplace incidents.
Community also supports the lifelong development of our members with Communitas, our independent training arm. Communitas can help members develop new skills and retrain to better face the realities of a global economy.