Job Discussion Forums

[lolwhites]

Given the number of mentions H&S gets when people criticise schools, I thought people might be interested in the ACAS guide. It states the law in plain English, and it's important to remember that it applies right from day one, unlike certain employment rights which you don't get in the UK until 12 months. For example, employers MUST consult on H&S matters even where there in no recognised trade union.

The Trade Union Reform and Employment Rights Act 1993 provides protection against dismissal, or other detrimental action short of dismissal, for health and safety representatives and other employees in particular circumstances where health and safety is an issue. Employees who claim this right has been violated can complain to an employment tribunal, irrespective of their length of service.

ACAS - Health and Safety
ACAS - Health and Safety - involving employees
ACAS - Advisory booklet - Health and Employment

[SandyM]

Now that is an extremely interesting little point (or two) to have made, lolwhites - thanks very much! Many of the 'issues' that come up on summer camps can be related to Health and Safety, I reckon.

Also, there's the aspect of supervision of children, which is usually inadequate and could (or should) involve the Social Services. Do you know where we can find info on this matter too, lolwhites?

BTW, have you thought of approaching the EL Gazette (www.elgazette.com) with a view to writing an article for them on these subjects? They're usually quite keen to sponsor articles of wider interest, I've found (I'm being serious here, actually!).

Anyway, thanks again for the useful stuff.

Sandy

[SueH]

I mentioned H&S to a poster regarding her experiences in Weymouth. I've been fortunate in my summer school experiences with only minor niggles and occasional sulky French animateurs who did most of the supervision, thank goodness. But I do recognise the truth in the reports I read, and feel that the biggest weapon to use against intransigent employers, should it be so needed, is H&S. So where appropriate a copy of your resignation letter to HSE and so forth.

I was approached last summer by a new employer as they were desperate for teachers and had been given my name, but the vagueness of the job spec and commitment in hours (and, as ever, the pay!), charming as the lady was, made me turn the offer down. I think people need to be a bit more selective in the jobs they accept, although getting information I realise, can be difficult.

[lolwhites]

I'm afraid I don't have any info to hand about Social Services. One more piece of advice when raising H&S issues is to do so by email - and keep a copy in your "Sent mail" folder. That way you have concrete proof that you raised the issue on a given date.

Hadn't thought about contacting EL Gazette - thanks for the suggestion.