Latest updates for members working for HM Coastguard.
Posted on:
Dear GMB member,
Please find attached the letter of support for coastguards from the area management teams.
Kind Regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
Posted on:
Dear GMB member,
Please see the link to a self-explanatory letter requesting publication of CRO Survey Results and Disclosure of Risk Assessments Relating to the Coastguard Rescue Officer Service.
Maritime & Coastguard Agency Letter
I will provide an update once I receive a response.
Kind Regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
Posted on:
Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres (MRCCs)
Whilst full-time officers working within Maritime Operations, including Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres (MRCCs) across the United Kingdom, are not permitted to comment publicly on this matter without potentially facing disciplinary action, it is important to state that we stand firmly alongside our colleagues within Coastal Operations and the Coastguard Rescue Service, many of us as also volunteers in the CRS..
We fully support the work undertaken by Coastal Officers and strongly believe they should continue to receive remuneration above and beyond the reimbursement of expenses. The role they perform demands significant commitment, sacrifice and professionalism. These officers willingly give up their time, often at short notice, to respond to emergencies in all conditions, at all hours of the day and night. They provide a vital lifesaving service to the public and are an integral part of the Coastguard's operational capability. Their dedication, experience and willingness to serve deserve recognition and fair reward.
What is particularly concerning is that those of us working within Maritime Operations were never consulted on this proposal, nor were we asked to provide any assessment of the likely operational impact. Despite this, many of us could see the potential consequences from a considerable distance. The likely effects on recruitment, retention, morale and operational effectiveness were apparent from the outset. Removing an allowance that recognises the commitment and responsibilities of Coastal Officers risks sending a damaging message to both existing personnel and prospective recruits.
The Coastguard Rescue Service does not operate in isolation. Maritime Operations and Coastal Operations are two parts of the same organisation, working together every day to protect life around the coast and at sea. Any reduction in the strength, resilience or morale of one part of the organisation inevitably affects the other. The burden created by reduced recruitment, increased resignations or lower operational availability will ultimately be felt across the wider Coastguard network.
Regrettably, this decision appears to have been made by individuals who have never worked within Maritime Operations or Coastal Operations and who may not fully understand the realities, pressures and challenges faced by operational personnel or maybe they don't care and come from the belief that business is business. There is a growing sense amongst many staff and volunteers that decisions affecting frontline services are increasingly being taken without meaningful engagement with those who deliver them. As a result, this decision is widely viewed as misguided, unjustified and an expedient solution that prioritises short-term financial considerations over long-term operational resilience.
The frustration felt throughout the organisation should not be underestimated. Coastal Officers are not simply volunteers filling gaps in a system; they are highly trained, highly committed operational personnel who represent the Coastguard in communities across the country. Their contribution saves lives, supports families in their darkest moments and provides reassurance to countless members of the public every year.
Unfortunately, this is not the first decision that has caused concern amongst Coastguard personnel and implemented without proper consultation, consideration and understanding of its wider consequences. Decisions such as this risk causing lasting harm, creating unnecessary frustration and undermining confidence in leadership. More importantly, they have the potential to negatively impact not only the Coastguard as an institution, but also the many lives, families and communities that depend upon its professionalism, capability and commitment every single day.
Our colleagues in Coastal Operations deserve our support, our respect and fair recognition for the invaluable service they provide. We stand with them and urge the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to reconsider this decision before lasting damage is done.
Kind Regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
Posted on:
Dear Members,
Please click the link below to read the latest Coastguard Service Member update letter from the GMB’s General Secretary, Gary Smith.
Coastguard Service Member Letter 30062026.pdf
Kind regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
Posted on:
Dear GMB member
To keep you all updated, attached are letters sent this week to Virgina McVea, CEO MCA.
Letter to Keir Mather, MP
mca-recognition-letter-290626.pdf
GS to Virginia McVea 30062026.pdf
MCA Formal Recognition letter 290626.pdf
Kind Regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
Posted on:
Dear Members,
We want to provide an update on the progress of GMB's recognition campaign within the MCA.
As part of the statutory trade union recognition process, GMB is required to first submit a formal written request to the MCA seeking recognition for collective bargaining purposes. This is the first stage of the process set out under Schedule A1 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and is a necessary step before any application can be made to the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC).
Following this request, the MCA has an opportunity to respond and engage in discussions with GMB regarding voluntary recognition. If recognition is not agreed, or if discussions do not lead to an agreement, GMB may then proceed to submit an application to the CAC for statutory recognition.
I have today written to Virginia McVea, CEO MCA to initiate this process. This is an important milestone and demonstrates GMB's commitment to securing a recognised voice for members in negotiations.
We would like to thank all members for their continued support and engagement. We will keep you informed of developments and next steps as the process progresses.
Kind Regards,
Nicola Savage
GMB National Officer
