Notes from meeting on 8th June, 2007
Sebastian Barnes
Sheldon Heath School, Central Theatre Supplies, Wolverhampton Grand,
mac, Freelance Production Managers.
Here are bullet points of topics discussed.
1. Alcohol at Work policies; some organisations have policies, CTS,
NIA, mac , usually a disciplinary matter and should be included at
contracting stage. Late social drinking can affect ability to work the
following day. It was suggested that some 'band' riders should be
reduced to avoid alcohol related incidents. Who is seen responsible
for H&S of visiting performers? We all have duty of care for all in
our venues. Reducing drink riders could be a deterrent to 'getting
the show on'. We agreed there is often lack of clarity, and support
of staff.
2. Tallescopes; These appear to still be in use. Mac has completed
a Risk Assessment. East Midlands Production Manager's Association
completed similar Risk Assessments in the 1990's. We agreed to post
copies of any suitable documents on the webforum.
3. Training; The NSA initiative must include existing workers in our
sector, including basic skills. It was suggested that Union Learning
Reps should be part of research into regional training needs. The Rep
Apprenticeship scheme dispelled much staff cynicism of training and
assessment. Relationships with mentors and assessors is very
important. TUC Reps courses are good to see different perspectives,
learning and self analysis.
4. Midlands Training Consortium; The aims and objectives are being
drafted. The main group meets on 15th June and 13th July to continue
the creation. Progress will be summarised on this forum.
5. Birmingham City Council pay upgrade; CS related the LEA's process
of re-evaluating all pay grades in schools, including non-teaching
staff. Deadline for completion is Sept '07. It was noted that
Coventry district completed this exercise some years ago. There is
apparent lack of consistency between schools. There are cases of
pupils being employed in possibly unsuitable roles in schools. It
was noted there are many H&S concerns in schools. Risk Assessments
need to differ for children/ young people and vulnerable adults.
6. Work Experience; The NIA offer about 10 work places a year, AG
started this on his own initiative. He targets opportunities to
coordinate with suitable events. His main aim is to get students
interested and involved. He has set up relationships with some
schools, conducts risk assessments and sends them relevant
information. He issues a report and certificate on completion. NEC
Group HR department arrange each student's induction. Sheldon Heath
school take teaching placements from universities. Mac offer about 6
placements a year, working with live performance technicians, also
conducts risk assessments. Wolverhampton Grand doesn't offer places.
We aren't clear if CRB reports are necessary for those working with
students.
7. CRB Reports; at Wolverhampton Grand and mac all staff are given
an enhanced report. At the Rep some staff are given the same report.
At the Wolverhampton Grand the need for, and cost of, accredited
chaperones has put off some organisations. The Belgrade. Coventry,
has a good Working with Children policy.
8. Radio Mic Frequencies; No new information. There is an industry
funded lobby group. The summary of the legislation posted on this
forum by Ian is very useful. Apparently O2 and Dell are interested in
purchasing these bands.
9. Next Meeting; Agreed on to tie up with a training event in July at
a venue in Coventry. Ian K has been approached to arrange a venue for
a Selecon product trial. He will confirm soon. The Wolverhampton
Grand has offered to host our meeting in September.
10. We offered many thanks to Alan G from the NIA for hosting this
meeting.