In its response to the Labour Party’s consulation on a statutory youth service, Unite the Union, which incorporates the former Community, Youth and Playworkers Union, has called for a return to the recognition of playwork qualifications.

Unite’s response says:

“Unite believes that playworkers would also gain from an increased recognition of their professional skills especially since September 2014, when the Government removed the statutory requirement for out of school clubs and holiday play schemes registered on the Ofsted Early Years Register to employ staff with ‘full and relevant’ childcare or playwork qualifications’ “

The deadline for submissions has been extended until the 30 November.

Information about the consultation and how to contribute can be found here

Unite’s full response can be read here

Photo: James Schaap