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Unpaid Internships: We can’t work for free. Dannie Grufferty, Vice President Society and Citizenship 10 th February 2012. What do t hese people have in common?. They don’t pay their interns. What is an unpaid internship?. There is no absolute definition of an internship.
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Unpaid Internships: We can’t work for free Dannie Grufferty, Vice President Society and Citizenship 10th February 2012
What do these people have in common? They don’t pay their interns
What is an unpaid internship? There is no absolute definition of an internship. An internship tends to be used to mean a set period (often around three months) of employment in a junior (often graduate level) role. Some internships are paid above the NWM, others pay below the NMW, some reimburse travel and/or lunch expenses – others pay nothing at all.
Why do we care about Unpaid Internships? • Youth unemployment higher than ever • They are unfair • They exploit students • They are illegal
Why are unpaid internships illegal? Unpaid internships do not comply with NMW legislation. They are illegal. A worked is entitled to NWM. A worked is someone with: • A contract of employment or; • A contract to perform work or provide services personally for your employer. The contract does not have to be in writing, it can be oral or implied.
What is NUS doing? University Careers service campaign Does your university careers service advertise unpaid internships? Let us know
What is NUS doing? Unpaid Internships ‘We can’t work for free’ campaign launch: Monday 13 February 11-1.30 TUC, Congress House, London
What is NUS doing? London Fashion Week stunt ‘The Devil Pays Nada’ with Intern Aware Friday 17 Feb 9.45 at Somerset House, central London Theme: fashion victims
Strategy Key aspects of the campaign strategy are: • Research – (then) action – (then) evaluation The campaign is based on a cycle of research, action and evaluation. • Power mapping – we mapped who to influence and how, both internal to NUS and external organisations and individuals. • Local action – the strength of NUS is its member unions, the campaign focuses on facilitating campaigning activities by students’ unions. • Timing / policy environment – the campaign could gather cross-party support and we already have some political support. As the practice is rife within parliament it is often called the ‘next expenses scandal’; now is a good time to campaign.
How can studentunionsget involved? • Pass a motion in your Union • Distribute NUS/UCU Internships briefing for students and SUs http://www.nus.org.uk/PageFiles/24282/NUS%20unpaid%20internships%20advice.pdf – on NUS Connect under Resources/Soc Cit tab • Campaign locally to ensure University careers services do not exploit their students by advertising unpaid internships • Contact me – dannie.grufferty@nus.org.uk for more information