Energy

Posted on: 6 October 2026

Dear Member,

Thank you to everyone who took part in our recent GMB survey at Octopus Energy.

The response rate was fantastic, and the message from members was clear. The most common issues raised were:

• Workload and work-related pressure
• Pay and reward
• Micromanagement and workplace culture

These are issues that affect people across the business, and they are exactly the kind of workplace concerns that a recognised trade union can help address. With a recognition agreement in place, GMB could work directly with Octopus Energy and our members to raise concerns collectively, negotiate improvements, and ensure workers have an independent voice at work.

One of the most encouraging findings from the survey was the number of people who told us they want to become more involved in the campaign. To protect the anonymity of everyone's survey responses, we deliberately did not collect personal details as part of the survey.

If you said you wanted to get involved, or if you would like to play a more active role in the campaign, please complete this form and leave your contact details:

Octopus Energy Activists Network – Fill in form

This will allow us to contact you about campaign activities, workplace organising, and next steps in our recognition campaign.

We're also pleased to report that the campaign is already delivering results. Following our recognition request, Octopus Energy has agreed to meet with GMB on 6th October to discuss the proposal. We will provide an update to members after that meeting.

In the meantime, the single most important thing you can do is talk to your colleagues about joining GMB.

Octopus Energy is currently the only major energy supplier in the UK that does not recognise a trade union. Without a recognised union, workers have less influence over the decisions that affect them. The stronger our membership becomes, the stronger our case for securing an independent worker voice at Octopus.

Together, we can build the collective strength needed to improve pay, tackle excessive workloads, address micromanagement, and make Octopus Energy an even better place to work.

In solidarity,

Charlotte Brumpton Childs

Acting National Secretary

Posted on: 29 September 2026

Dear GMB member in Octopus energy,

Today marks a historic step forward in your fight for independent trade union representation.

GMB, the union for Octopus energy workers, has today formally approached Octopus for the right to negotiate over your pay and conditions. This marks the start of the first ever formal application by a trade union to collectively represent Octopus workers.

The applications are made for Smart Tech Specialists in Brighton and Manchester.

Octopus has the opportunity to do the right thing and enter into something called a voluntary agreement to ensure its staff have a voice at work.

However, if they choose not to the GMB can continue with a formal, legally binding application to ensure Octopus workers have a seat at the table when it comes to deciding on your pay and conditions.

We will keep you updated on the response from your employer and next steps in the process.

GMB Trade Union