GMB North West and Irish Region Connect Magazine | Page 2

GMB Union Representatives are people who believe in standing up for fairness and helping other members in their work place . They come from a variety of backgrounds and positions in their workplace . The union is completely committed to supporting our representatives .

So often workers are nervous to become GMB Union Representatives , they feel

• that they don ’ t have enough of an education

• nervous about negotiations with management

• worried about their ability

The GMB North West & Irish Region education department will undertake Initial Starter Training , which is designed to identify any extra support a new representative may need to reach their full potential . This is followed by a 10 day Induction Training program , set over an initial week and then completed a couple of weeks later . This initial training takes place in two stages , five days each , usually intimate class numbers of about fifteen people from various work places . The main focus of the Induction Course is to build confidence , academics is not important and all aspects of trade union representation will be covered . The GMB will equip , develop confidence and offer new learning opportunities for all our union representatives . GMB Union Representatives can develop into Senior Stewards , Union Learning Representatives and Health & Safety Officers for example .

When the GMB is recognised in your workplace , GMB union representatives will receive paid leave to perform union duties . That can include attending conferences or even congress . The feedback from most of GMB members who have become GMB Union Representatives , say it was the best thing they could have done . Not just for their workplace satisfaction of helping other people at work , but also their personal development and confidence boost . You too can become a GMB Union Representative , get in touch with your Senior Rep , Branch Secretary or GMB Organiser .

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