De Horecabond and works councils are committed to the same employees, each from their own role. We often work on topics such as mergers, reorganisations, and negotiations on collective labour agreements. By collaborating in a timely manner, we increase the influence on what is important for employees.
Toolkit for works council (OR) and PVT members
Everything you need to be strong in employee representation, conveniently gathered together. We support both new and existing works councils (ORs) and PVTs. From setting up a works council to advising on Updates issues.
- Works council elections
Organising a works council election? We explain how it works, what your rights are, and what to watch out for. You will also see how many works council members there are and how to organise the elections properly. - Establishing a works council
Want to establish a works council? In organisations with 50+ employees, this is mandatory, but you can also take the initiative yourself. You jointly draft regulations and organise the elections. - Training for works council members
As a works council member, you are entitled to training. This is stated in the works councils Act (WOR) and your employer pays for it. Want to know more? In the brochure ‘Training rights for works councils’ you can read how to arrange and utilise this properly. - This is where you make a difference as a works council
As a works council member, you will deal with various themes. You contribute ideas, ask questions, and influence decisions within the organisation. In the brochures ‘Works council during reorganisation’ and ‘Works council and workload’ you can read how this works and what you can do as a works council.
Read how employee participation at Landal has contributed to better collaboration, clear agreements, and more engagement in the workplace. Read the article
Want to know more?
Our first blog about employee participation is live. Discover why this is so important in the hospitality industry and how you can gain more influence over your work. Read the blog by Marlotte, union representative at De Horecabond.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is employee participation?
Employee participation means that employees contribute ideas and have a say in important plans of a company or organisation. It concerns, for example, terms of employment, working hours, staff policy, and workplace safety.
How can employees contribute ideas and have a say at work?
Employees can participate in discussions at work in various ways. Here are three common forms.
- Works council (OR)
A works council is mandatory for companies with 50 or more employees. They provide advice (for example, during reorganisations) and sometimes must give approval first, for instance, when changes in employment conditions occur. - Staff representation (PVT)
For companies with 10 to 50 employees. The PVT often forms if the staff wants it or if it is stipulated in the CLA. The tasks are similar to those of the works council but can be somewhat more limited. - Staff meeting (PV)
For companies with fewer than 10 employees. In a staff meeting, the staff discusses important work-related topics with the employer. This allows everyone to express their opinion.
What rights does a works council have?
The works council has three important rights:
- Right to information: the works council has the right to information necessary to perform its duties effectively.
- Right to advice: for important decisions, such as reorganisations or major investments, the employer must first seek advice from the works council.
- Right to consent: for changes in staff arrangements, such as working hours or leave, the employer needs the works council's consent.
What is the difference between advice and consent?
With consent, the employer may only implement a decision if the works council agrees to it.
For advice, the employer first asks for the opinion of the works council. The employer may then make a different decision, but must explain this thoroughly. The works council can then potentially take the matter to court.
What facilities does a works council receive?
The employer must support the works council. This means, for example:
- meeting during working hours
- attending courses and training
- using information or external experts
The costs for this are borne by the employer.
Do I have influence if I am not a member of the works council?
Yes. The works council represents all employees. You can therefore bring up topics, ask questions, or contact the council. This way, your voice can still be heard.
Is a works council just a place to complain?
No. The aim of the works council is not only to discuss problems, but to think positively about policy. The works council can, for example, contribute to better working conditions, plans for the future, or a good approach to reorganisations. It is therefore primarily a way to improve an organisation together.