Workplace Organisers

Many GMB members get active at their workplace; some hold official GMB positions such as Safety Representatives, Workplace Organisers and GMB Learning Representatives, whereas some just help in any way they can – taking the newsletter round their workplace or looking after a noticeboard for example.

It is important to GMB that its Workplace Organisers know what we are asking them to do on behalf of GMB members in their workplace, so below is the Workplace Organisers job description.

Builds GMB’s Strength

The strength of GMB in negotiations depends on its strength in the workplace. GMB’s goal is for 100 per cent workplace membership. It is difficult to claim to represent the workforce if both the Workplace Organiser and the employer know that many workers are not in the union. A GMB Workplace Organiser is always looking out for opportunities to increase the membership and make the union stronger.

Communicates and Informs

Workplace Organisers are the key point of contact between the union and its members so it’s important that they attend branch meetings to keep the union informed about members’ concerns and to keep their members up to date about union initiatives and campaigns. The Workplace Organisers key tasks are to talk to their members, distribute workplace newsletters and maintain workplace noticeboards.

Advises Members

Members look to their representatives for knowledge, experience and guidance. They will turn to their Workplace Organiser when they have a problem, or feel they are being unfairly treated. In general the issues on which GMB Workplace Organisers spend most time are health and safety matters and the way employees are treated by management.

Represents Members

Workplace Organisers are the voice of the members in their workplace when dealing with the employer on issues that affect them and their working conditions. Sometimes they may be helping an individual member, such as one facing disciplinary action. At other times they may be meeting management on behalf of members collectively.

Solves Problem in the Workplace

The role of a Workplace Organiser these days consists of promoting fairness at work, bargaining for better conditions, as well as helping to resolve problems, deal with difficulties that arise in the workplace and tackling health and safety issues.