International Women’s Day 2023: Usdaw continues the campaign for equality and focuses on workplace risks to women’s health

Paddy Lillis - Usdaw General Secretary says: “On International Women’s Day we celebrate women’s contribution to society, the economy, family life and workplaces. We also continue our campaigning tackling women’s inequality by addressing discrimination and improving workplace rights. This year we are focused on the impact the workplace has on women’s health, factors ranging from their over exposure to low pay and insecure contracts increasing their risk of poverty; to the health and safety hazards that can damage physical and mental health.

“One of the most effective ways to deliver better pay, decent work and fairness for women is for employers to recognise trade unions. We need a new deal for workers that makes work pay, ends insecure employment, provides a proper social security safety net and gives workers a voice through their trade union.

“Too many workers suffer abuse and violence at work, for women this often takes the form of sexual harassment.  Usdaw’s survey of members’ experiences found seven in ten women have experienced some form of sexual harassment at work. Young women are particularly at risk with 90% reporting sexual harassment in a year. Most did not tell their employer.

“Where the differences between men and women are taken into account when assessing risk and deciding suitable solutions, there is a greater chance of ensuring that the health, safety and welfare of all workers is protected. Research shows that women are more exposed to repetitive and monotonous work and to stressful conditions. Usdaw works with employers to highlight and mitigate these risks.

“Strong employment and equality rights during pregnancy and maternity leave are absolutely necessary; pregnancy discrimination at work and in the labour market remains widespread, ranging from being denied paid time off for antenatal appointments to inadequate rest breaks and lack of proper risk assessments. Women in unorganised workplaces face particular problems and are often too afraid or vulnerable to assert their rights; so trade unions and strong workplace organisation are crucial to defending and furthering women’s rights at work.

“The majority of low-paid key workers are women. These essential roles have been undervalued and underpaid for too long. Women workers need a new deal that includes more affordable and available childcare. They need new family friendly rights that give parents and carers real choices to support juggling work and family life. A comprehensive childcare provision is essential to support working parents.

“Today we highlight our all year round campaigning on issues that affect women workers. Women are more likely than men to be members of a trade union and strong workplace organisation is crucial to defend and further women’s rights at work. One of the most effective ways to deliver better pay, decent work and fairness for women at work is for employers to recognise and work with trade unions.”