Questions Over GMB Union’s Workplace Culture as Allegations of Misogyny and Bullying Persist

Published: 11 September 2025 | The English Chronicle Desk

Concerns over alleged misogyny, cronyism, and bullying within the GMB union have resurfaced, drawing scrutiny from whistle-blowers and the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Women who have come forward claim that the union’s internal culture remains hostile, despite reforms promised after a damning 2020 report.

A recent attempt to engage directly with GMB General Secretary Mr Smith highlighted the tension surrounding these allegations. Efforts to ask him about the complaints were met with avoidance, as he left the Trades Union Congress conference early and appeared reluctant to engage. When approached, he maintained that the union had no significant issues, describing it as a “cleaned up organisation” with a “pretty positive” culture.

However, numerous women within GMB contend otherwise, reporting harassment and intimidation in workplaces across the country. Some senior employees, fearing for junior staff, have formally lodged complaints spanning multiple regions. In February 2024, members of the union’s largest regional division even backed a consultative ballot on industrial action, a rare move reflecting the seriousness of the concerns over bullying and harassment.

The equalities watchdog, prompted by a surge of complaints from female union staff, has now launched a formal inquiry into GMB’s compliance with the Equality Act. The union has responded to these inquiries, and the EHRC will evaluate their submission. Whistle-blowers assert that despite Mr Smith’s 2020 pledge to implement the Monaghan report’s recommendations and foster a culture of decency and equality, the issues have persisted, and in some cases worsened.

The situation is further complicated by GMB’s political significance. As a major Labour donor with cabinet ministers among its membership, the union wields considerable influence, particularly given its close ties to the current Labour leadership. The union’s visibility in political circles has heightened attention on its internal culture, especially following public assurances from Mr Smith that reforms had taken root.

While GMB maintains that policies and structures are now in place to address complaints, critics argue that a pattern of harassment and misogyny continues to undermine these assurances. The union insists it has responded appropriately to past allegations and denies that institutional sexism remains prevalent, but repeated reports from staff and the ongoing EHRC inquiry suggest significant challenges remain.

As scrutiny continues, questions persist over whether the union can reconcile its public image with the experiences of its female employees and maintain trust among members and the wider public.