Exciting Updates from the Certification Officer: Key Announcements You Need to Know

Recent Decisions by the Certification Officer

On 9 July 2026, a ruling concerning a breach of union rules was made in the case of Blackburn v Unite the Union. The applicant raised two complaints regarding alleged breaches during disciplinary proceedings, submitted under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Following a video conference hearing on 27 May 2026, the Certification Officer dismissed the complaints, finding no merit in the claims.

Additionally, on 3 July 2026, the Certification Officer received an application for a certificate of independence from the Union Workers Union, submitted on 8 June 2026. The Certification Officer, Stephen Hardy, also presented the Annual Report for the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 to Parliament on this date, which outlines the activities of the Certification Office and includes statistical data derived from annual returns mainly related to the year ending 31 December 2024.

Changes in Union Status

On 1 July 2026, the Women’s Rugby Association was officially removed from the list of trade unions maintained by the Certification Officer due to its dissolution. Similarly, the British Association of Dental Nurses merged into Community on 23 June 2026, leading to its removal from the trade union list. The Trade Union for Ethnic Minority Social Workers (TUEMSW) also ceased to exist as of 23 June 2026, resulting in its removal from the official list.

New Applications for Certificates of Independence

On 16 June 2026, the Certification Officer received a new application for a certificate of independence from the Equality for Workers Union (EFWU) under section 6 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. This application has been recorded and will be processed after a month has elapsed from the date of notice. Interested parties are invited to submit any relevant information regarding this application through the provided contact details.

Another application for a certificate of independence was submitted by Workers Voice Union on 27 May 2026, and the Certification Officer will similarly refrain from making a determination until a month has passed since the notice was issued.

Modernisation of Certification Office Processes

On 2 June 2026, the Certification Officer announced the launch of a new online service designed to modernise casework processes. This initiative aligns with the objectives outlined in the Business Plan 2026 and will allow individuals to submit applications online regarding alleged breaches of trade union rules and relevant legislation, starting from 8 June 2026. This move marks a significant shift from the traditional paper-based system to a more efficient and accessible digital format.

Updated guidance and a link to the online application form will be made available on the Certification Office’s website from 8 June 2026, enhancing the overall efficiency and consistency of casework handling.

Reflection on the Certification Office’s History

On 30 March 2026, the Certification Officer celebrated the 50th anniversary of the office’s establishment, reflecting on its journey since its inception in 1976. Stephen Hardy, the current Certification Officer, highlighted the office’s evolution over five decades amidst significant political and social changes in the UK. He noted that the role was created to improve industrial relations and governance standards, echoing the commitment to uphold fairness and transparency in union operations.

Throughout its history, the Certification Office has maintained the independence and effectiveness necessary to oversee over 190 trade unions and 60 employer associations, processing annual returns and applications consistently and diligently.

Continued Commitment to Good Governance

As the Certification Office prepares for the next half-century, it remains focused on adapting to new legislative landscapes and enhancing its services, ensuring that effective governance and good industrial relations lie at the core of its mission. With the introduction of digital services and a renewed emphasis on transparency, the office aims to uphold the trust and confidence of those it regulates and serves.

For more information regarding the Certification Office’s activities, stakeholders are encouraged to reach out via email or telephone to discuss priorities or provide feedback.