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The two year project will be based in Derby but its work will cover the whole of England. The project has been made possible due to joint funding by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills via the Union Modernisation Fund.
The Project is designed to help all vulnerable construction workers, not just UCATT members. Its initial key priorities are to help groups who are particularly vulnerable including: young workers/apprentices, agency workers, migrant workers and workers coming into contact with asbestos.
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It currently has two members of staff, based at the central Vulnerable Workers Unit. The staff members will be providing direct 1-2-1 advice to vulnerable workers, and providing advice, training and literature to affected groups. Information will be distributed via UCATT officials, other partner organisations and third sector organisations, which already have links with vulnerable workers.
Alan Ritchie, General Secretary of UCATT, said: "Construction is a highly casualised industry, its very nature means that many workers are vulnerable either to poor employment conditions, low pay or injury. The new Vulnerable Workers Project will be a unique resource in providing help and assistance to workers when they most need it.
"While UCATT will be leading the project, a number of organisations have already pledged their support and will be providing active assistance to the project through membership of a steering committee. Organisations that have already agreed to become partners in the project include: The Health and Safety Executive, Citizens Advice, Jobcentre Plus, Manchester University Business School, Community Links, HMRC, Wigan & Leigh/Lewisham college and OH Parsons Solicitors."
The Vulnerable Workers Project has been functioning since early January 2010 and it will have its formal launch on Tuesday 23 February at the Hallmark Hotel in Derby.
(CD/BMcc)
