Health and Safety
When it comes to health and safety, the GMB’s reputation is second to none, with experts at all levels of the organisation.
Workers at Dales Marine have joined GMB Union and want GMB to be recognised to negotiate pay, terms and condition and make work better.
We have produced the frequently asked questions below to help answer any queries you may have about this process and how union recognition will affect you and your colleagues.
If you have any further queries not covered by the answers here, please contact: Sean.Robertson@gmb.org.uk
1. What is a trade union?
A trade union is an organisation of workers created to protect and advance the interests of its members by negotiating agreements with employers on pay and conditions of work. GMB Union also provides legal representation free of charge for members at employment tribunals, for unfair dismissal or discrimination for example, or who are injured at work.
2. What does Trade Union Recognition mean?
A trade union is “recognised” by an employer when it negotiates agreements with employers on pay and other terms and conditions of employment on behalf of a group of workers.
3. If GMB Union was recognised, what terms and conditions would it be responsible for negotiating on our behalf?
As a minimum, GMB will be able to negotiate pay, hours and holidays and will be able to run grievances collectively to challenge unfair changes or proposed changes in the workplace.
4. If GMB Union is recognised, do I have to join GMB Union?
You do not have to join GMB Union, and no one can force anyone to be a member of a union.
However, only GMB union members will have a say when it comes to what GMB negotiates and what is accepted on behalf of the workforce. For example, it would be GMB members who would set out what they wanted in a pay claim and which pay offer is accepted on behalf of the whole workforce.
By joining GMB, employees will be able to have more influence on issues affecting them and their colleagues in the workplace.
5. If GMB becomes the recognised trade union, do I have to go through GMB if I have a problem at work?
Trade union recognition in no way affects your right to speak directly to your line manager or employer. GMB believes all issues between an employee and their employers should be resolved amicably and informally in the first instance.
6. If recognised, what will GMB’s presence in the workplace look like?
As well as GMB noticeboards and posters, GMB members will elect union representatives from the Dales Marine workforce. These representatives will be fully trained to support and represent GMB members in disciplinaries, grievances and negotiations. GMB representatives will have access to a wealth of GMB knowledge and support.
7. Won’t having a union cause trouble at work?
GMB Union are committed to working constructively with your employer to make work better if recognition is agreed. All trade unions are a vehicle for their members to raise their concerns and to organise to make work better. We are the voice of the workforce and not an outside body.
8. What are the benefits of union recognition for employees?
Collective bargaining means that workers can positively influence changes to their working conditions by speaking as one united voice.
Workplaces with recognised unions have higher pay and greater job security than unrecognised workplaces.
9. What are the benefits of union recognition for employers?
Union recognition and the improved working conditions and employee relations it promotes makes the recognised workplace a more attractive option for potential employees and can improve employee retention.
10. How do I Join GMB Union? How much does it cost?
All the information about joining can be found on our website, you can join GMB today at: www.gmb.org.uk/join-gmb