Introduction
The Good Practice Charter for Artists is a set of principles that cover freelance artists' working conditions. The principles include H&S, valuing and rewarding artists, workers collective voice, equality & diversity, social responsibility and mental health. Read more HERE.
The Charter sets out minimum terms and conditions for artists working in the sector. Arts and cultural organisations are encouraged to sign up to the charter and work towards meeting these principles.
Why do we need a Charter? The GPC places protections at work and good practice in one place within one frame work. The Law provides minimum protection for freelance workers around Health & Safety and the Equalities Act 2010. The GPC expands these standards. We want organisations to work towards and meet these standards in order to tackle inequality and exploitation.
Background
The GPC working group is made up of AUE members Paul Collinson (Hull), Ekua Bayunu (Manchester), Sophie Gibson (Burnley), Anthony Padgett (Preston) and Theresa Easton (Newcastle).
It is no surprise that these members are based in the North. AUE Northern Organiser Theresa Easton took part in the TUC’s Organising Academy in 2019 and produced a research document exploring the idea of a charter that would create a level of regulation in the arts sector.
Previous and subsequent feedback from AUE members at local meetings requested better monitoring of arts and cultural organisations work practice.
The working group have organised consultation sessions with organisations and individual members in order to shape the charter. Just like AUE Rates of Pay document which was born out of one of the first AUE working groups, the GPC is a working document.
If you are interested in joining the working group - email theresa@artistsunionengland.org.uk for dates of the next meeting.
Artists’ Union England is an active union and is constantly campaigning, producing resources and signposting opportunites for its members:
Latest sign up to the Good Practice Charter for Artists
01 April 2022
AUE signs letter of support for Whitworth Gallery Director
04 March 2022
Artist Studio Checklist - renting a studio / workspace
27 January 2022
Arts organisations signing up to the Good Practice Charter for Artists
10 December 2021
What Does COP26 Mean for Artists, Trade Union Members and Workers?
01 November 2021
The Good Practice Charter
12 August 2021
A membership to Artists’ Union England gets you professional support and access to resources. That means you’ll get:
Your membership means help will be there when you need it and we’ll constantly campaign for artist’s rights.
Membership costs £42 annually
– equivalent to £3.50 per month