A mother of two and nursery assistant in Leeds, Hayley Doyle, expressed concerns about the upcoming holiday season due to the escalating cost of living challenges. She highlighted the financial struggles faced by early years workers, citing low pay and insufficient funding for services.
Earning nearly £25,000, Hayley mentioned that staff often dip into their own pockets to buy essentials like wellies and coats for children in need. Additionally, they contribute gifts for fundraising raffles at the nursery. She criticized a meager 3.2% pay increase offer, emphasizing the strain on staff who feel overworked, especially with the added pressure from the government’s free childcare initiative.
As Christmas approaches, Hayley admitted feeling a sense of dread due to the rising costs, particularly for basic items like food and treats. She noted the financial strain of buying items like selection boxes for kids, a gesture that has become increasingly unaffordable over time.
Concerned about the sustainability of her career, Hayley revealed that many colleagues have already left the field for higher-paying jobs, with some considering the same move. Despite her initial intention to give back through her work, she lamented that the demands and financial burdens have outweighed her contributions over the past 11 years.
Nearly 40% of school support and early years staff are anxious about affording meals for their families this holiday season, according to recent polls. More than half also worry about purchasing Christmas gifts for their loved ones. Many workers feel compelled to provide for the children under their care, with some resorting to bringing in treats, sweets, or presents.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by workers, one respondent shared the emotional toll of seeing children struggle due to financial hardships at home. The survey highlighted instances where staff had to provide clothing, including second-hand raincoats, for children lacking appropriate winter attire.
Moreover, the survey revealed that limited time off during term time poses significant issues for many workers. Half of those with primary school-aged children have missed their child’s nativity play for at least three years, while some have faced deductions in pay for attending personal events.
Stacey Booth, a National Officer at GMB, expressed dismay over the dire financial situation of school support staff and emphasized the need for better compensation and working conditions. She underscored the importance of introducing the School Staff Negotiating Body to address longstanding issues in the education sector.
In a survey conducted by the GMB union with over 4,600 school support staff and early years workers, the challenges and financial strains faced by these essential workers were brought to light.