Guidelines Promote Fair Treatment Of Work Placement In TV Industry

Guidelines have been published to promote fair treatment of work experience placements in the television industry.
The guidelines have been drawn up at the request of the industry to clarify where National Minimum Wage legislation applies, to encourage best practice, and to respond to some reports of unfair practices.
The TV Skills Strategy Committee, made up of leading industry figures, asked Skillset, Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries, to work with the Department for Trade & Industry and HM Revenue & Customs, to provide a best practice guide to running quality work placements. The television industry is oversubscribed by new entrants to the labour market and work experience is commonplace as a way to secure first jobs.
Paymaster General, Dawn Primarolo said: "The majority of UK employers are honest and scrupulous, so instances of minimum wage non-payment are in the minority, but we must ensure those entitled to payment are given at least the minimum wage. This guidance will enable broadcast industry employers to understand their obligations, and help them distinguish between workers and volunteers."
Shaun Woodward, Minister for Creative Industries added: "I welcome these new guidelines which can help create the right type of responsible climate in which to nurture and support new talent. The television industry should be congratulated for pioneering this work, however, the issue of work experience practice is a major issue for all of the creative industries and the guidelines will have resonance for other sectors as well. The onus has to be on employers, trade unions and trade associations to engage with this and encourage its use across the workforce."
Among the recommended guidelines are:

• There should be a written confirmation to provide a framework for the placement
• Placements should be for a limited period of time - ideally two weeks, but at most a month where it is necessary for the placement to be a genuine learning experience
• Hours of attendance should be limited to 40 hours a week
• Specific learning objectives are agreed between the placement provider and individual.
  

The guidelines emphasise that a volunteer, who is unpaid, should not be under an obligation to perform activities in accordance with the employer's instructions.
If a genuine volunteer placement becomes more than a volunteer learning activity, National Minimum Wage may apply.
(DS)