Glasgow, Scotland, a city with a rich industrial history, owes much of its economic prosperity to the docks and shipping industry. However, as times change, so do the challenges faced by the workforce. As I made my way to the International Play Association Conference today, I encountered a sign that read, "FAIR WORK, FAIR PAY, FAIR CONTRACTS." This powerful message resonated deeply with me, as it reminded me of the workforce issues prevalent in Out of School Hours Care (OSHC), an issue which has been reflected back to me by multiple people in multiple organisations, internationally. in OSHC, PEOPLE MAKE QUALITY, just like Glasgow's slogan 'People Make Glasgow'.
Glasgow's industrial heritage dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when it played a pivotal role in the global shipping and trade industry. The city's docks were bustling with activity, and the workforce found employment opportunities in various industries, contributing to Glasgow's economic growth. However, as the city transitioned into a post-industrial era, new challenges emerged, including workforce issues related to fair work, fair pay, and changing working environments.
In OSHC, a paramount need is to escalate the prominence of the developmental, social and educational work that Educators undertake within a recreation and leisure framework. Work must be equitable, suitable and valued. Work environments must ensure workers are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. This encompasses factors such as decent wages and opportunities for career progression, professional development opportunities and ensuring the overall well-being of workers.
The workforce challenges not only impact the well-being of OSHC workers but also have repercussions on the quality of care provided to children. Should we all be advocating for professional recognition based on the above factors? I think so, their is specialist knowledge and skill in Play Work, and in fact in many areas over here, the staff are called Play Workers, giving the prominence to the importance to play for children. I LOVE THAT!
By amplifying or Educators/Play Workers voices, advocating for policy changes, and promoting professional identity and development opportunities, these initiatives strive to create a more equitable and sustainable OSHC workforce and a better experience for our children.
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