YTV freelance talks

BECTU has met with Yorkshire Television to discuss freelance terms and conditions.

BECTU Officials have discussed with YTV (Yorkshire Television) management the terms and conditions of freelances engaged by the company.

The position of freelance Hair and Make-Up Artists - who have not received a pay rise for two years - is a particular issue which has not yet been resolved.

More generally, the union expressed concern at the way in which aspects of the staff House Agreement, including flexibility over location working, has been applied to freelances.

The union argues that both contractually, and in practical terms, freelances are in a different position to staff employees. Arrangements which may make sense for staff members can lead to excessive working hours, and pose real health and safety problems, for freelances who live much further away.

The union hopes that there is a willingness on management's side to take these concerns on board. Talks are continuing.