GMB Race & Equality
How to get involved

Below is an outline of the duties and functions of a BEO. If you would like to become a rep, contact your Branch Secretary (click here for a full Branch list) and they will advise you further. If you have any difficulties contact Raj Gill who will be able to assist you.

Branch Equality Officer Role
The Branch Equality Officer role is a wide and varied one. It will depend on the workplace, branch structures and activities. There is potential for you to make the role as challenging, diverse and exciting as you wish. There is no formal "job description", however below are some of the activities a BEO could get involved with.

Recruiting and Organising - So that women, black and ethnic minority workers, people with disabilities, gay and lesbian workers want to join GMB and are encouraged to do so.

Information - You could be a useful contact point for women, black or ethnic minority workers and people with disabilities. BEOs can become a source of information on equality issues and build up a library of phone numbers and useful contact details of support agencies.

Listening - You need to be sympathetic to members who have an "equality" issue. Such issues may include maternity rights, childcare, time off for domestic emergencies, harassment or bullying, sex, and race or disability discrimination. You are not expected to be an "expert" in all these areas, but simply to seek help from others on your member's behalf.

Where to go for help? - You can contact Regional Office, the shop steward or Branch Secretary, your Organiser or the Regional Equal Rights Officer for further information and assistance.

Campaigning - You should raise awareness of the equality agenda such as Equal Pay, Family Friendly Working with the Branch and with your employer.

Attending RREC meetings