Unite staff begin voting on strike action

Members of GMB working in Unite's National Bargaining and Disputes Support Unit (BDSU) are being balloted for strike action, due to the union's failure to address concerns of bullying and victimisation or take any action against the managers accused of this behaviour.

Several GMB members involved in a collective grievance regarding these issues have also seen disciplinary proceedings started against them since the grievance was raised, causing real concerns that they are being victimised for exposing the bullying behaviour of Unite BDSU managers.

Unfortunately, no meaningful action has been taken by Unite to address these concerns. As a result, members are now being balloted for strike action.

The ballot opened on 8 November and will close on 18 November 2024.

Danny Adilypour, GMB London Regional Organiser, said:

"GMB members in Unite's National Bargaining and Disputes Support Unit are proud trade unionists who have worked loyally for Unite, supporting Unite members in disputes against rogue employers.

"They deserve better than to be bullied by their own managers and then ignored by Unite when they raise a genuine collective grievance regarding this treatment.

"It is deeply disappointing that there has been no effort to address their grievance or resolve this dispute.

"Needless to say, we won't end this dispute until the members involved feel their concerns have been addressed. Unite's failure to take the action required to address the bullying and victimisation of their employees and suspend the BDSU managers accused of such behaviour while these allegations are investigated has led to this strike ballot being called.

"Any strike action can still be avoided if Unite management get around the table and agree meaningful action to end this dispute. We again call on them to do this and are ready to meet with them to resolve this at any time."