Profile: Philip Hutchinson, Youth Officer, GMB MPs and Peers Staff Branch
Young workers tend to face increased levels of bullying and exploitation, have increased job insecurity and often work for lower pay.
This is particularly true in Parliament, where the difference in power between MPs, Lords and staff often leaves young workers particularly vulnerable.
I am therefore proud to be the Youth Officer for GMB MPs and Peers Staff Branch, and I am working to ensure all young workers receive appropriate pay and better protection in the workplace.
In particular, I am working on a campaign to end the use of unpaid internships in Parliament (apart from for those on a full-time university course) and am supporting the other equality officers on a campaign to ensure that pay progression is equitable and fair for all.
Having spent two years as GMB Young Workers Lead for the Midlands, I am also proud to bring a wealth of experience in campaigns, mobilisation and recruitment to my role.
I was particularly pleased to play a role in mobilising young workers to support the campaign for union recognition at Amazon.
I am also one of the GMB reps on the Young Labour National Committee, and through that role, work to forge closer links between Young Labour and GMB.
In Parliament, I work as a Senior Parliamentary Researcher for a Labour MP, and it is a privilege to be able to support my MP to create a more equal, just and compassionate society.
As trade unionists in Parliament, we currently have a unique opportunity to ensure that Parliament becomes a better workplace for young workers.
I will continue to do all I can to ensure that the concerns of young workers are heard and acted upon.
