Equal pay in the NHS and Local Government
GMB announces its new Equal Pay unit to handle claims
The unit will be run by professional lawyers to asses cases and, where strong enough, pursue those that cannot be resolved through negotiations.
What is an equal pay claim?
Speaking generally, if you have been paid less than someone of the opposite sex doing the same or a similar job or one of equal value then you may have a claim. A claim arises under the Equal Pay Act and is lodged with an Employment Tribunal after registering a grievance. The Equal Pay Unit will do all this.
What do I have to do?
If you think you might have a claim simply fill in the appropriate attached form (Local Authority or NHS) and send it to the address shown on it. We will let you know if your case has merit and if so the Equal Pay Unit will send you a detailed questionnaire for a thorough evaluation.
Are there time limits?
Yes, and the simple rule of thumb is to register your potential claim using the form as soon as possible. It is the individual’s responsibility to urgently submit a grievance and a claim to tribunal so contact the GMB for help immediately.
The GMB wants ALL members who might have an equal pay claim to complete the registration form. We will then try to negotiate collective settlements but if we can’t we will have prepared the ground to use litigation. Through the new Equal Pay Unit the GMB can ensure that no stone is left unturned in the campaign to win pay equality for all.
Download the relevant questionnaire below and return them to us to help in our campaign