Bectu signs MoU to ensure fair wages and working conditions at LEEDS 2023

Bectu and other unions in the creative sector have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Leeds Culture Trust, the independent charity that runs LEEDS 2023.

The MoU between Leeds Culture Trust, TUC Yorkshire and Humber, Bectu, Equity, Artists’ Union England and the Musician’s Union, guarantees that workers on LEEDS 2023 projects are paid a fair wage and engaged in safe and secure working conditions.

It pledges that performers are engaged on contracts that meet or go above trade union minimums, and will encourage performers and workers to meet with relevant trade unions and actively collaborate on support, training and legacy outcomes.

Leeds Culture Trust will encourage its partners and stakeholders to engage with appropriate unions to create agreements for the creative sector workers they employ.

LEEDS 2023 is a year-long celebration of culture that aims to deliver a transformational year of creative experiences connecting and benefiting people now and into the future, as part of Leeds City Council’s Culture Strategy. Find out more about LEEDS 2023.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“In these uncertain times it’s more important than ever for workers to have the strength and support of a trade union behind them.

“We welcome this commitment from Leeds Culture Trust to making the region an even better place to work and ensuring that staff and freelancers engaged on Leeds 2023 projects can thrive.

“The arts should be for everyone and we know that diverse workforces are healthy, robust, sustainable workforces. We’re pleased that this initiative is also focusing on diversity and supporting the workforce with training and development opportunities, and to see Leeds Culture Trust commit to the fair engagement of volunteers.”

 CEO and Creative Director of Leeds Culture Trust Kully Thiarai said:

“LEEDS 2023 will be a celebration of creativity, with hundreds of events taking place throughout the year in all 33 wards of the city. This will only be possible by working with a skilled and talented workforce across all areas of our operation.

“We want to engage with the breadth of talent across the city and region and help develop and strengthen creative employment opportunities in Leeds and West Yorkshire.

“LEEDS 2023 is a perfect opportunity to further develop a diverse, culturally engaged workforce and grow the creative sector that we hope will be part of the legacy of our Year of Culture.”