Rockin’ Solidarity

Staff at iconic Nottingham music venue, Rock City, are fighting for Unite recognition, and have been given support by comrades in the Musician Union.

Workers at the world famous concert hall began their public campaign for union recognition earlier in June, but still have no response from Rock City owners DHP Family.

Unite has now launched a petition calling on DHP Family to Respect your workers at Rock City and recognise Unite the Union!

DHP said it prides itself as being “the biggest independent promoter in the UK”, saying that “We pride ourselves on our big company capabilities but with the same focus on the original ethics that got us here.”

Sadly these “ethics” don’t seem to stretch to giving the young staff, on low paid, precarious, zero hour contracts with unsocial hours, at the venue the right to be recognised by a trade union. 

Kevin Reynolds, Unite Hospitality Project Worker, welcomed the support from the MU and said, “Not only do these workers want respect and dignity in the workplace, but they want to challenge poor health and safety, poor sexual harassment procedures and a bullying culture in the workplace.”

“So far, George Akins and DHP Family are refusing to engage in meaningful dialogue with Unite to enter recognition talks, or honour the collective nature of their grievances.”

In a press release the MU said it stands with Rock City workers in their fight for union recognition, and “We are calling on MU members to show solidarity: please sign and share the petition to support Rock City workers in their fight for fair treatment and union recognition.”

Unite Hospitality would encourage everyone to sign the petition here, and share far and wide.

For more information about Unite Hospitality go to the website here. 

Earlier this year Unite Live shared the story of Freddie and Gus, hospitality staff who worked in a rural cafe and understand the benefits of being in Unite. 

By Keith Hatch