WO toolkit 2012 complete.pdf - GMB

SECTION 1.1
YOUR ROLE
TRAINING FOR GMB WORKPLACE ORGANISERS
GMB provides a wide range of training courses to help new and existing Workplace Organisers gain the
skills and confidence they need to do the job for GMB where they work.
By agreeing to become a GMB Workplace Organiser,we know you are committed to growing your union
in your workplace,and that over time,with the support of your Officer and the members you represent,
and with dedicated training,you will further develop your knowledge,skills and confidence in the job.
Experience tells us that the best way to learn the job of GMB Workplace Organiser is not in the
classroom but by doing it in the workplace and that’s why our training is deliberately designed to be‘on
the job’.
INITIAL SUPPORT TRAINING
Shortly after you first become a GMB Workplace Organiser you will be contacted by the GMB Officer
responsible for supporting you and the members where you work,who will give you your Initial Support
Training.This will provide you with:
1. Details of GMB membership where you work.
2. A GMB Representatives badge and official credentials.
3. Copies of the recognition agreement between GMB and your employer.
4. A copy of this toolkit.
5. A copy of GMB@Work Noticeboard toolkit.
6. A briefing on the current industrial issues where you work.
7. Contact details for other GMB Workplace Organisers where you work.
8. Contact details for your local GMB office and specialist GMB support staff in the Legal,Health and
Safety and Training Departments.
9. Your first job as a new GMB Workplace Organiser: To introduce yourself to all those who work in your
section,find out who is not in the union and make a list.
10. Preparation for your first training course–GMB@Work:Workplace Organisation course.
GMB@WORK–WORKPLACE ORGANISATION
Whether you are starting as a Union Learning Representative(ULR),Health and Safety Representative
or GMB Shop Steward,within a few weeks of completing your Initial Support Training(IST)and once you
have had an opportunity to complete your initial work as a new GMB Workplace Organiser you will be
invited to attend a two day course during work time at a nearby location.
This course starts with the information you have gathered since your IST about those working around
you.It helps you turn this information into your own‘Map’of your workplace,which will,over time,
become your most valuable tool for building the union and representing members where you work.
The course also covers issues such as:
• workplace newsletters;
• how to approach potential members;
• how to keep your members informed and involved with the union and;
• understanding the union’s relations with your employer.