Become a GMB Workplace Representative

Make a Difference in Your Workplace

Would you like to support your colleagues, stand up for fairness and help make your workplace a better place for everyone?

Becoming a GMB Workplace Representative is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference, develop new skills and ensure that colleagues have a strong voice at work.

GMB Plymouth Health Branch supports members working across healthcare services in Plymouth and the surrounding area, including NHS employees and those working for privately contracted service providers.

Our members work across various locations, including Derriford Hospital, Mount Gould Hospital, Bush Park, Scott Hospital, Cumberland Centre MIU and Tavistock MIU.

What Is a GMB Workplace Representative?

A GMB Workplace Representative is often the first point of contact for members who need advice, support or guidance about workplace matters.

Sometimes known as Shop Stewards or Union Reps, these representatives play a vital role in ensuring that members’ voices are heard and their workplace rights are respected.

Workplace Representatives are elected or appointed in accordance with GMB rules and help build a stronger, more organised union.

You don’t need to be an expert to become a representative. What matters most is your willingness to help others, listen to colleagues and stand up for fairness.

What Does a Workplace Representative Do?

Recruiting and Organising

A strong union starts with its members.

Workplace Representatives help build GMB membership, encourage colleagues to get involved and ensure that workers understand the benefits of belonging to a trade union.

The more members we have, the stronger our collective voice when negotiating with employers.

Supporting Members and Resolving Problems

Workplace Representatives help members understand their rights and support them when workplace issues arise.

This can include:

Supporting members through disciplinary and grievance procedures.

Raising concerns about workplace fairness and treatment.

Helping address health, safety and wellbeing issues.

Supporting members with workplace policies and procedures.

Working with management to resolve concerns.

Promoting equality, dignity and respect at work.

Advising and Representing Members

Members often turn to their GMB Representatives when they are uncertain about workplace matters or feel they are being treated unfairly.

As a representative, you will help colleagues understand their options, access appropriate support and ensure their concerns are taken seriously.

You will also work alongside other GMB Representatives, branch officials and full-time officers.

You will not be expected to know everything or handle difficult cases without support.

What Support and Training Will I Receive?

GMB provides training and guidance to help representatives develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for the role.

Training can include:

Understanding employment rights.

Representing members effectively.

Handling disciplinary and grievance matters.

Negotiating and communicating with management.

Understanding workplace health and safety.

Equality and workplace fairness.

Recruiting and organising members.

You will have access to support from experienced GMB Representatives, branch officials and GMB officers.

Will Becoming a Representative Affect My Job or Pay?

Becoming a GMB Workplace Representative does not, in itself, change your employment contract, normal working hours or contractual pay.

Where the relevant statutory conditions are met, representatives are entitled to reasonable paid time off during working hours to carry out qualifying trade union duties and attend approved, relevant training.

The amount of time off considered reasonable will depend on the circumstances, operational requirements and any workplace facilities agreement.

Not all trade union activities automatically qualify for paid time off.

GMB can provide guidance on your rights and the arrangements applicable to your workplace.

Interested in Becoming a GMB Workplace Representative?

If you are a GMB member and would like to get more involved, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Whether you have previous union experience or are completely new to the role, GMB can help you develop the skills and confidence to represent your colleagues.

To register your interest, please contact:

GMB Plymouth Health Branch Secretary

Email: enquiry@gmb-plymouth-health.com

Please include your name, workplace, department and contact details.

You can also request a Workplace Representative application form and information about the next steps.

Once your interest has been received, the Branch Secretary or a GMB officer will contact you to discuss the role, training and the relevant election or appointment process.

Be the Voice That Makes a Difference

Every workplace needs people who are prepared to listen, support colleagues and stand up for fairness.

Could you be that person?

Become a GMB Workplace Representative and help build a stronger, fairer workplace for everyone.

GMB UNION – STRONGER TOGETHER