In Victorian Britain workers began to organize themselves into Trades Unions, and soon the power of organized labour - allied with religious movements and political reformers - began to win new rights and benefits for the common people, such as the 1833 Factories Act which restricted the use of child labour. But obtaining such concessions from government was only possible through one of the two main political parties of the time, the Conservatives or the Liberals.
By the start of the 20th century the Trades Unions felt that working people needed their own political party, and were supported by many intellectuals and reformers. The Labour Party was thus created by a political alliance across all classes of society, and by 1945 had displaced the Liberals as one of Britain's two main parties.
Trades Unions continue to be a vital partner in the Labour Party and work with Party representatives at both local and national level. Trades Union branches are entitled to affiliate to local Constituency Labour Parties and often participate by sending delegates and giving financial support.
Whilst working conditions in Britain have improved greatly since the 19th century, there is still much work to be done - for example in relation to the poor health and safety record in much of the construction industry, or by protecting migrant workers from exploitation. The Unions are also active in helping workers overseas to fight for better conditions.
Islington North Constituency Labour Party is rightly proud of its many links with the Trades Unions, and campaigns to ensure that Labour governments continue to deliver social and economic policies which benefit workers.
