The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the GMB Union have formally entered into a Recognition Agreement covering Coastguard Rescue Officers (CROs), the MCA announced on 27 October 2026. The agreement sets out how the two organisations will work together on matters affecting those it covers, through early engagement, effective consultation and constructive dialogue.

MCA Chief Executive Virginia McVea called the agreement an important milestone in the agency's relationship with GMB. She said the MCA values the role trade unions play in representing and supporting Coastguard Rescue Officers and their contribution to saving lives, assisting those in distress and protecting communities around the UK coastline. GMB National Officer Nicola Savage described it as a historic deal, saying that for the first time CROs will have a genuine voice.

The MCA said the agreement provides a foundation for ongoing partnership between the two organisations and for representation of those covered. It added that, for civil servants, the agreement does not affect current arrangements with the Prospect, PCS and FDA trade unions.