WO toolkit 2012 complete.pdf - GMB
WO toolkit 2012 complete.pdf - GMB
WO toolkit 2012 complete.pdf - GMB
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SECTION 2.4<br />
GET TO KNOW YOUR <strong>WO</strong>RKPLACE:<strong>WO</strong>RKPLACE MAPPING<br />
Workers always have issues and problems in the<br />
workplace.They will join <strong>GMB</strong> if they believe that we<br />
can help them resolve their issues.<br />
<strong>GMB</strong> Workplace Organiser<br />
One of the most important tasks of <strong>GMB</strong> Workplace Organisers is to know their workplace and,if<br />
possible,know it better than their management.<br />
This will be simpler in some workplaces than others,but to help <strong>GMB</strong> Stewards this <strong>toolkit</strong> contains a<br />
sample form to help them identify:<br />
• Who are <strong>GMB</strong> members,potential <strong>GMB</strong> members or other union members.<br />
• Which <strong>GMB</strong> members are active in the workplace and will support <strong>GMB</strong>’s Workplace Organiser.<br />
• The type of workers,full-time,part-time,temporary and casual in the workplace.<br />
• The make-up of the workforce such as gender,age and multiple languages etc.<br />
• The shift and rota patterns in the workplace.<br />
• All agreements,contracts and policies that apply in their workplace.<br />
• The location of managers and supervisors.<br />
• Who has just started at the workplace.<br />
• Who is working their notice and just about to leave.<br />
GATHERING ALL THIS IS CALLED‘MAPPING THE <strong>WO</strong>RKPLACE’<br />
You will need to get some of this information from your employer,for example who is starting and<br />
leaving.<br />
The best way <strong>GMB</strong> Workplace Organisers can map the workplace and understand the issues faced by<br />
members,is to introduce themselves to <strong>GMB</strong> members,non-members,new starters and management<br />
in the workplace after they are elected and regularly from then on.A good way to do this is to take your<br />
workplace newsletter around with you and talk to people as you give it out.<br />
If <strong>GMB</strong> Workplace Organisers are able to talk with members and potential members on a one-to-one<br />
basis that is always the best option but in larger worksites meetings or circulars might be easier and<br />
more effective.<br />
Also by talking directly to members’and the workforce it can provide a chance to identify and respond<br />
to any concerns that workers may have about trade unions,including any negative experiences they<br />
may have had with unions before.<br />
Note:<br />
Two forms you can use to begin mapping your own workplace are included at the end of this section.<br />
Pick the version that suits your workplace best and photocopy as needed.