UCU: Congress scheduling

Motion

Motion text: Congress notes Congress and Sector Conferences are always held across the May half-term for FE including on Bank holidays on some years.
Congress believes.
1. the timing of Congress is difficult for working parents. The dates chosen are school holidays and often bank holidays. This can exclude anyone (primarily women) who have family commitments.
2. Workload is at an all-time high in FE so taking leave in the allotted student holidays are vitally important for members wellbeing and health.
3. Employers reluctant to release members for Congress are the issue that should be confronted rather than disadvantage members with the current scheduling.
Congress resolves.
a. To schedule future Congresses so it does not disadvantage FE or any section of UCU members
b. To move Congress/Sector Conferences to be weekday during term-time for members
c. To call on the GS to prioritise resources supporting delegates to obtain release.