Form GMappeal 1 UK: Gangmasters Appeal Guide

What this document is

Form GMappeal 1 is the official notice used to begin an appeal against a decision of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority. The right to appeal comes from the Gangmasters (Appeals) Regulations 2006, which were made under the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004. Decisions that can be challenged typically include the refusal to grant a licence, the refusal to renew a licence, the revocation of a licence (including revocation with immediate effect), the attachment of additional conditions to a licence, and the transfer or non-transfer of a licence.

The form goes to the Secretariat to the Gangmasters Licensing Appeals, who log it and pass it to an appointed appeal officer. Along with the form, you submit the grounds you are relying on and any documents you want the appeal officer to consider.

The regulations give the appellant procedural protections, including the ability to see the evidence being relied on by the Authority, the right to be accompanied at any hearing, and the right to request an oral hearing rather than a paper determination.

How to use this document

1. Read the decision letter carefully. Your first task is to identify exactly what has been decided, the date of the decision, and whether it takes effect immediately. The date on the decision document starts the clock running, and an immediate-effect decision carries a much shorter appeal window than a standard one.
2. Work out your deadline and note it down. For most decisions, Form GMappeal 1 must reach the Secretariat within 20 working days of the date on the decision document. Where the decision has immediate effect, such as an immediate licence revocation, the window is reduced to 10 working days. Missing the deadline puts your appeal at risk.
3. Draft your grounds of appeal. Set out clearly and concisely why you say the decision is wrong. This might include factual errors, misapplication of the licensing standards, procedural unfairness, or new evidence the Authority did not consider. Keep the grounds specific and link each point to the decision being challenged.
4. Gather your supporting documents. Collect copies of anything you want the appeal officer to look at, such as correspondence with the GLAA, inspection reports, employment records, contracts, payslips, training records, or witness statements. Label each document and refer to it in your grounds so the appeal officer can follow your argument.
5. Submit Form GMappeal 1 to the Secretariat. Complete the form in full, attach your grounds and supporting bundle, and send it to the Secretariat so it arrives before the deadline. Keep proof of posting or delivery. After receipt, the Secretariat will confirm next steps, including any hearing arrangements and timetable for the Authority's response.