In the run-up to the holiday season, a mother of two and nursery assistant in Leeds expressed deep concern over the escalating cost of living crisis. Hayley Doyle, 44, highlighted the financial struggles faced by early years workers due to low pay and insufficient service funding.
Earning just under £25,000, Hayley revealed that staff often dip into their own pockets to buy essentials like wellies and coats for children in need, in addition to contributing gifts for fundraising raffles at the nursery. She criticized a meager 3.2% pay raise offer and emphasized how staff are feeling overwhelmed, especially with the added strain from the government’s free childcare initiative.
As Christmas approaches, Hayley described feeling a constant sense of dread as prices continue to rise, making even small luxuries like selection boxes unaffordable. The financial strain has led some colleagues to leave the profession for higher-paying jobs, leaving Hayley worried about her own future in the field after dedicating 11 years to giving back.
With nearly 40% of school support and early years staff expressing concerns about affording meals for their families during Christmas, a survey of over 4,600 workers revealed that 55% are also anxious about purchasing presents. Many workers feel compelled to provide for the children in their care, with a significant percentage bringing in treats, sweets, or gifts.
The survey captured one worker’s sentiments reflecting the emotional toll of witnessing children from struggling families, emphasizing the ripple effect on personal finances. Additionally, a substantial portion of staff have had to provide clothing for children lacking adequate winter attire, further highlighting the challenges faced within the sector.
Stacey Booth, GMB National Officer, condemned the low wages and workplace hardships endured by school support staff, emphasizing the urgent need for better recognition and support. The reintroduction of the School Staff Negotiating Body by the Labour government in 2026 was underscored as crucial to addressing these systemic issues.
The GMB union’s survey shed light on the dire financial struggles and workplace obstacles faced by school support staff and early years workers, sparking calls for comprehensive reforms to improve their working conditions and livelihoods.
