Determining the significance of the citizens' advice bureau as an industrial relations actor

Abstract

Purpose

This paper draws on established and more recent concepts of an industrial relations actor and applies them to the citizens' advice bureau (CAB). The purpose of this is to determine the significance of the CAB as an industrial relations actor and to identify limitations associated with traditional concepts of what constitutes an actor.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight bureaux from contrasting localities in Greater London participated in the research. CAB advisers providing employment advice and clients with work related problems were interviewed.

Findings

Provides information on what constitutes an industrial relations actor and the significance of the CAB as a new industrial relations actor.

Originality/value

The paper addresses a gap on new industrial relations actors particularly in relation to their importance. It suggests that new bodies can be classified as industrial relations actors and that they are significant, particularly in the absence of a strong labour movement.

Citation

Abbott, B. (2006), "Determining the significance of the citizens' advice bureau as an industrial relations actor", Employee Relations, Vol. 28 No. 5, pp. 435-448. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425450610683645