The GMB union has announced an ambitious campaign to sign up thousands of new members across the Scottish Highlands and Islands, marking one of the most significant organising efforts in the region in recent years.
Targeting Key Sectors
The recruitment drive will focus heavily on workers in hospitality and social care - two industries that form the backbone of the Highland economy yet often feature challenging working conditions and lower pay rates. Union organisers believe there's substantial unmet demand for worker representation in these vital sectors.
Strategic Regional Approach
Rather than a blanket approach, the campaign will deploy targeted strategies across different parts of the Highlands and Islands. Areas including Inverness, Fort William, Wick, and the Western Isles will see coordinated efforts to engage workers who've traditionally had less access to union representation.
Addressing Local Employment Challenges
GMB Scotland organiser said the initiative responds directly to the unique employment landscape in the Highlands, where seasonal work, tourism dependency, and geographic isolation can create particular vulnerabilities for workers.
"Many workers in the Highlands feel isolated from the protections and collective power that trade unions can provide," the organiser explained. "We're bringing the union directly to their workplaces and communities."
Building Worker Power in Remote Areas
The campaign represents a significant investment in building worker organisation in some of Scotland's most remote communities. Union representatives will be conducting workplace visits, community meetings, and digital outreach to connect with potential members across the vast region.
This Highlands-focused initiative comes as trade unions across the UK seek to rebuild membership levels and relevance following years of declining numbers, particularly in private sector employment.
