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I am currently a National Convenor for the GMB in one of the Branch Companies. I have been in this role for several years. I am also the Branch Communications Officer for the G36 Security Branch

National Equalities Summit

G36 Branch News /

We’re pleased to confirm that we are running five online National Equality Summits this Autumn – giving our underrepresented members the chance to come together to develop their knowledge of workplace organising and campaigning.

 

All Regions are invited to send attendees who belong to the five equality groups to the summits, with no limit on how many members can attend and no requirement for any level of experience. This learning and development opportunity is open to all members who identify with the relevant group, and members new to campaigning are most welcome.

 

Please see more details here: gmb-equality-summits-2023 (gmb-southern.org.uk)

 

As a result of there being no limit to the number of attendees, it has been agreed that we will advertise the summits to all GMB Southern Region members. However, Branches like yours will be informed of who has applied to attend and asked to raise any concerns.

 

Please share this information with your members and ask them to apply for a place using the links below:

 

Race Summit – Black, Asian and minority ethnic workers: Saturday 4 November 

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Bu2-fmudXk67ViAZWkPyhriQyUvAyDdBi3-telC_Bz9UMUdNM0gxSU9KUTEyN0k1NThMSzNGVFNGSi4u

Disabled Workers Summit: Saturday 18 November

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Bu2-fmudXk67ViAZWkPyhriQyUvAyDdBi3-telC_Bz9UMU5YN1ZYWTdPSzRaVThKQ1pKMldJSUZUMC4u

Young Workers Summit – Workers age 30 & under: Saturday 25 November

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Bu2-fmudXk67ViAZWkPyhriQyUvAyDdBi3-telC_Bz9UQkZTMDNKU1A0NjBSMENJVUVVRkNYSEkyTS4u

Women Workers Summit: Saturday 2 December

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Bu2-fmudXk67ViAZWkPyhriQyUvAyDdBi3-telC_Bz9UNUZURjFHMDUyMlNCR1dZTlI3TEVPRUYyVi4u

LGBT+ Workers Summit: Saturday 9 December

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Bu2-fmudXk67ViAZWkPyhriQyUvAyDdBi3-telC_Bz9UMjM5QU5VN0lCWVNINzZXT0xZVkFOSENYNS4u

 

The deadline for applications to be received by the Region is Thursday 5th October at midday.

 

National Equalities Summit Read More »

G4S DWP Update

G4S Allied Universal /

Bulletin September 2023

GMB Union Update – ACAS Agree to Arbitration

 

Dear GMB Members,

We hope this newsletter finds you well and we want to thank you once again for your patience.

Like you, the LNC are exceptionally frustrated by the continual delays, the Company are obviously doing everything they can to avoid participating in arbitration.

Your LNC can only guess that the Company are scared about potentially having to pay members any additional money that comes from their own pocket, not just what DWP have funded them.

However we can report some good news.

ACAS have advised that they are prepared to arbitrate on the pay for 2022/23.

 

But this won’t come as a surprise to members now, the Company are still trying to avoid arbitration and are seeking another meeting (18th September) to table another offer.

We cannot emphasise this enough that the Company is deliberately doing this to try and undermine your collective strength and position.

Your support is invaluable in these negotiations, and we thank you for standing together in solidarity.

If you require further information, please contact your local GMB Representative or GMB Office.

Please ensure you share this update with non-members and encourage them to voice their opinions on pay by joining GMB: https://www.gmb.org.uk/join-gmb

In solidarity,

   GMB DWP LNC                                                                                                                                                                  GMB National Officer

G4S DWP Update Read More »

Mitie Pay Update September

Mitie /

September 2023

MITIE HMT 2023 PAY UPDATE

Dear Members

We hope this bulletin finds you in good spirits, we want to keep you informed about latest developments and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving fair terms for all members.

We understand and share your frustration with the delay in getting this matter resolved, ACAS have now confirmed arrangements and the meeting will now take place on Monday 18th September at their offices in Victoria Street SW1.

We appreciate your understanding and ongoing support as we navigate through this process.

We will keep you updated on further developments.

In Solidarity

Mick Butler

GMB Union Regional Organiser

Please ensure that any colleagues who aren’t yet GMB members have their say on pay by joining GMB: https://www.gmb.org.uk/join-gmb

Mitie Pay Update September Read More »

Creating a Robust Profession: Improving the Perception of Security Workers

Leave a Comment / G36 Branch News /

Security workers play a crucial role in our society, ensuring the safety and protection of individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure. However, the perception of security workers has often been negative, with many considering it as a stop gap job rather than a respected profession. It is time for the security industry to unite and work together to change this perception and create a robust profession that attracts dedicated individuals.

One of the key factors in improving the perception of security workers is to offer better terms and conditions. Currently, many security jobs are low-paid with long working hours and limited career progression opportunities. This not only discourages talented individuals from considering security as a profession but also attracts workers who are not truly interested in security but rather see it as a temporary source of income.

To address this issue, security companies should strive to offer competitive salaries and benefits to their employees. This would not only attract skilled professionals but also incentivize them to stay in the industry for the long term. Additionally, providing opportunities for career development and progression within the security sector would give workers a sense of purpose and motivation to excel in their roles.

Another important aspect of improving the perception of security workers is to enhance their training and education. Currently, the training requirements for security workers vary widely.By establishing enhanced standardised and comprehensive training programs, security workers can acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively and professionally.

The current professional certification system (SIA) for security workers does add some credibility and legitimacy to the industry. This certification serves as a good start but needs enhancing further. Although SIA certification is mandatory. more needs to be done to raise the overall standard of the industry.

The security industry also needs to actively engage in public outreach and education to change the perception of security workers. This can be done through various means such as community events, educational campaigns, and collaboration with other industries. By showcasing the importance and professionalism of security workers, we can challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that have plagued the industry for far too long.

In conclusion, it is imperative for the security industry to come together and improve the perception of security workers. This can be achieved through better terms and conditions, enhanced training and education, and active public outreach. By creating a robust profession that attracts dedicated individuals, we can ensure the safety and security of our communities while offering fulfilling careers to security workers

Creating a Robust Profession: Improving the Perception of Security Workers Read More »

G4S DWP Pay Update July 2023

G4S Allied Universal /

        

Bulletin No July 2023    

 

GMB Union Update on DWP Pay Increase 2022/23

 

Dear GMB Members,

 

We hope this newsletter finds you in good spirits, despite the ongoing challenges we face in our negotiations with G4S. We want to keep you informed about recent developments and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving fair terms for all our members.

 

We understand and share your frustration with the company’s delay tactics. It’s evident that they are attempting to prolong the negotiations in hopes of undermining our collective strength. However, we want to assure you that the GMB stands strong, and we won’t be deterred by these tactics.

 

We must address G4S’s offers, which fell short of our members’ expectations. During the stage one negotiations, a 5.15% increase was proposed, but it did not align with members’ feedback and was unanimously rejected. G4S then presented the same offer of 5.15% during stage two negotiations which was rejected by 95% of GMB members by ballot, clearly reflecting the sentiment of our members. Furthermore, during the second ACAS meeting, the company then proposed a one-off payment of £125, which our members felt was an insult given their hard work and dedication during the cost-of-living crisis.

 

Now, yesterday, G4S presented a two-year deal that raises serious concerns for our members. In the first year, the proposed 5.15% increase without any improved percentage or additional benefits to the offer that was rejected by GMB Members and is simply not enough to reflect your hard work and dedication. The second-year offer 4% for premium sites and 7% for standard & enhanced sites with percentages even lower than the current Average Weekly Earnings (AWE) March to May average (7.4%) is disappointing, to say the least. GMB representatives closely analysed the proposed deal and the potential impact on GMB members. We share your belief that this offer would leave many worse off, rather than improving our members’ collective situation.

 

Low Pay Commission (LPC) estimate the National Living Wage (NLW) will need to rise next year to between £10.90 and £11.43 to reach the government’s target. LPC central estimate of the on-course rate of the NLW for 2024 is £11.16

 

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/largest-ever-cash-increase-in-the-national-living-wage-to-boost-pay-for-millions

 

Having analysed the company’s two-year offer, your LNC (Local Negotiating Committee) representatives are actively working to relay your feedback. We are open to a further meeting with G4S at ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation, and Arbitration Service) to once again reaffirm what our hardworking members believe constitutes a fair wage.

 

Our resolve remains firm: we firmly believe that our members deserve a living wage that reflects their contributions. We have communicated our strong stance to the company and have made it clear that arbitration remains a viable path forward.

 

As your union, we stand united in our commitment to achieving a fair resolution that benefits all members. Your support is invaluable in these negotiations, and we thank you for standing together in solidarity.

 

We will continue to push for what is right and just, and we won’t back down until we achieve an outcome that uplifts our members and respects their hard work. Stay united, and let’s face these challenges together.

 

If you require further information, please contact your local GMB Representative or GMB Office

 


In solidarity,

 

GMB DWP LNC  

                                                                       

GMB National Officer

 

Please ensure you share this update with non-members and encourage them to voice their opinions on pay by joining GMB: https://www.gmb.org.uk/join-gmb

          

G4S DWP Pay Update July 2023 Read More »

SERCO PECS PAY BALLOT RESULT

Serco Pecs /

Bulletin No July 2023

SERCO PECS PAY BALLOT RESULT

 

Dear Members

We hope this newsletter finds you well. We are writing to thank all GMB members who took part in the recent consultative ballot on 2023 pay. Your participation and engagement in this important process have been invaluable.

We are pleased to announce that GMB members have voted overwhelmingly to accept the company’s offer. We have also notified the company of the results and they have indicated that the new pay rates will be implemented from 1st July and will be paid in July’s pay packet.

We want to take this opportunity to remind you that as members of this union, we are stronger together. Our voices and actions can make a real difference in improving our working conditions and securing fair and just treatment for all members. We urge you to continue to stay engaged, participate in union activities, and help us build a stronger and more united membership.

Once again, thank you for your participation and support. Together, we will continue to work towards a better future for all members of GMB within SERCO PECS.

Yours in Solidarity

Mick Butler

GMB Regional Officer

SERCO PECS PAY BALLOT RESULT Read More »

Tolpuddle Cancelled

Leave a Comment / G36 Branch News, News /

Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival 2023 – CANCELLED

 
Event details
Date
Fri, 14 Jul 2023 – 12:00 to
Sun, 16 Jul 2023 – 18:00. 
 

Today, organisers of the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival have made the very difficult decision to cancel the remaining festival programme because of the extreme adverse weather conditions, and in the interests of everybody’s safety. 

Organisers have heeded Yellow Weather Warnings from the Met Office and have this morning closed the site to all new entrants. Access to the site is now impossible.  

In the interests of clarity, even though the weather is set to improve tomorrow, the rest of the festival will not be going ahead due to the logistical demands of safely resetting the site.   

TUC South West regional secretary Ines Lage said: “It is with extreme disappointment we have taken the difficult decision to call off this year’s festival but, with high winds predicted to reach 45mph today, the site is now unsafe for campers and visitors.  

“Our festival is a celebration of solidarity and unity. And this year we saw such solidarity in abundance as we sought to keep the festival going in adverse conditions. The kindness, patience and overwhelming support from festival attendees, and our wonderful crew and volunteers has brought home what the union movement is about. We are eternally grateful and will endeavour to extend that solidarity as we go forward as a community and a movement.”  

“It’s the first time extreme weather has caused the festival to be cancelled and I really hope it will be the last. I thank people for their understanding and look forward to welcoming them back in 2024.”  

Festival organisers confirm that all ticket-holders will be refunded over the next few weeks, and to await further instruction.

Tolpuddle Cancelled Read More »

Mitie HMT 2023 Pay Update

Mitie /

July 2023

MITIE HMT 2023 PAY UPDATE

 

Dear Members

We are writing to thank all GMB members who took part in the recent consultative ballot on the revised 2023 pay offer and to announce that GMB members have voted overwhelmingly to reject the company’s offer.

We have notified the company of the ballot result and met with them on Friday 7th July and have now jointly agreed to proceed to the collective conciliation stage at ACAS. We are currently awaiting suitable dates from ACAS which is now expected to be in September due to summer holidays.

We appreciate your understanding and ongoing support as we navigate through this process.

We will keep you updated on any further developments.

Please ensure that any colleagues who aren’t yet GMB members have their say on pay by joining GMB: https://www.gmb.org.uk/join-gmb

In Solidarity

Mick Butler

GMB Union Regional Organiser

Mitie HMT 2023 Pay Update Read More »

Loomis Bulletin July 2023

Leave a Comment / Loomis /

                  PENSION PROPOSALS – MEMBER FEEDBACK

Dear members,     

Thank you to everyone who has given their feedback to GMB Reps and Officers regarding the Company’s proposed pension changes.

The Joint Trade Unions have held an initial NNC meeting with the Company where your Reps strongly and passionately fed back the views of members following the site visits.

The Reps made it clear to the Company that there was widespread anger on how the proposals would impact on some of the Company’s most long-serving staff.

Many members were angry that after everything members and the Company had been through in recent years that they felt their loyalty was being tossed aside.

They felt that the changes were unnecessary, especially given that the fairly limited savings that it represented, with many saying that this could lead to long-serving staff leaving the Company.

Many members also felt that the Company was taking with ‘one hand’ so that it could fund the next pay offer, which we believe could result in anger being directed at the next pay talks.

We have pressed them to withdraw their proposals because they are unnecessary, impact on long serving staff and won’t actually result in any significant savings.

We have a further meeting scheduled later this month to pick up the talks further.

We will update members following that meeting.

Yours in union

GMB NNC Reps                                                                                                                                   Eamon O’Hearn – National Officer

                                                                                                                          

Loomis Bulletin July 2023 Read More »