Apprentices to get fairer deal under new charter, says UNISON

Apprentices working in public services are set to get a fairer deal under a charter to be launched later today (Wednesday) by UNISON.
Being paid the rate for the job, high quality training and a guaranteed employment contract are among the aims outlined in the document unveiled at the union’s annual national conference in Brighton.
The charter also sets out the responsibilities of employers such as ensuring an apprenticeship leads to a real job and not using them as cheap labour, according to UNISON.
UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “Young people have been hit hard by the government’s austerity policies, and youth unemployment is at a critical level.
“Apprenticeships are a way of improving job opportunities for them and for older people. But many employers are under pressure to cut costs and unscrupulous ones may be looking to exploit apprentices.
“This charter is an important step forward in protecting apprentices at work so they’re not just used as cheap labour. And employers will benefit too from a loyal, skilled and dedicated workforce.”
Note to editors:
– The charter will be launched at a fringe meeting today between 12.45 and 1.45pm in Syndicate 4, 1st floor, Syndicate wing, Brighton Centre, Brighton BN1 2RL.
– The government has said it is committed to creating three million apprenticeships by 2020.
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen T: 0203 627 2391 M: 07778 158175 E: [e-mail]
Sophie Goodchild T: 0203 627 2392 M: 07767 32559...

Source: UNISON Health care news - June 21, 2017 Category: UK Health Authors: Charlotte Jeffs Tags: News Press release apprentices NHS Source Type: news