The limited number of volunteers available in the heritage tramway and railway sector has been a recurring theme in recent years. A bid to allow young people (under 16) to work as volunteers in the sector is now being backed by UKTram to try and increase the pool of volunteers to help keep tramway and railway heritage on track for future generations.
Before last year’s general election, a Parliamentary Bill was drawn up by Lord Faulkner of Worcester which would see an exemptions to the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act of 1921. Under the current law, it is illegal for anyone aged under 16 to work in an industrial setting, including tramways and railways, even as unpaid volunteers.
James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, recently raised the issue during a meeting with government ministers and officials. He said: “I’m pleased to report that those we spoke to were very supportive of the proposals first put forward to Lord Faulkner by Geoffrey Claydon, a former Chair of the HTC.
“Although Geoffrey has now retired and there has been a change of government, we will continue to press for the bill to be put before parliament as encouraging young people to get involved with heritage systems is vital to their survival, and the future of the wider light rail sector.
“With the correct safety protocols in place, it doesn’t make sense to deny enthusiastic young people the chance to find out more about our history, learn valuable new skills and possibly take the first steps towards a rewarding career.”
It might get passed in law but has anyone actually considered the implications of insurance, safeguarding etc.
Also if this passes into law does it not open the way for employment of under 16s in a real world setting?