News

Thousands out as support staff strike

Increased Government support for the expansion of childcare programmes must be matched by action to boost pay levels of staff in the sector, a senior union official warned last week as thousands of nursery nurses and teaching assistants went on a one-day strike. Diana Holland, national officer for women in the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) and leader of its childcare organising campaign, said, 'Too often women's work, and particularly those working in the childcare sector, is undervalued. We welcome the fact that this Government regards childcare as an investment and not a cost.

Diana Holland, national officer for women in the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) and leader of its childcare organising campaign, said, 'Too often women's work, and particularly those working in the childcare sector, is undervalued. We welcome the fact that this Government regards childcare as an investment and not a cost.

'But it's not enough just to provide more facilities. We need a qualified, motivated and properly paid staff. The strike is not just about money - it's about improving the service and ensuring that staff stay in the sector.'

She added, 'It's no use having a short-term funding outlook when it comes to the pay of people working in childcare.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here