The CYWU is the first union to commit itself to supporting playworkers and has a national playwork section with representation on its National Executive Committee. The Association of Playworkers is working closely with the union having balloted members.
Pay negotiations will start in a few days between the CYWU and local government and voluntary sector employers. There will also be a special pay conference in Birmingham on 9 November.
The union is to work through its Salaries and Tenure Committee to ensure that all grant-giving bodies for playwork are aware of the JNC terms and conditions, currently the standard for youth work, and that funders provide for employment on proper terms and conditions and with full pension rights.
As has already been reported in Out of School, the CYWU is holding a series of regional conferences entitled 'Pay up for Play'. So far take-up has not been encouraging - so if you want to fight for better pay, book your place now!
* 24 October - Birmingham
* 31 October - Newcastle
* 26 November - Taunton
* Early 2003, date to be decided - London
Cost (including lunch) - members: free, non-members: 20. To book a place contact Kerry on 0121 244 3344 or e-mail her at kerry@cywu.org.uk.
The results of questionnaires sent out to playwork members of the CYWU and Association of Playworkers on terms and conditions are due to be published later this month.
