ATL

Stand up for public services

In January 2008, ATL joined forces with other TUC-affiliated unions on a one-day rally, 'Stand up for public services', which celebrated public sector values, and highlighted the concern of public sector workers about the growing involvement of the private sector in the delivery of public services.

ATL members turned out in full force to make their voices heard as hundreds of teachers, local government workers and health service employees from all over the UK descended on London to voice their fears to MPs about the future of public services and, in particular, the increasing involvement of private sector firms.

This followed on from our lobbying work at the TUC Congress in September, and is part of our ongoing campaign opposing the increased marketisation of education (see our position statement on the effect marketisation is having on pay and conditions in education).

What you can you do

• Look up the TUC's website - www.tuc.org.uk/speakup - for further information and details of upcoming events.

• Sign the ETUC petition - ATL members are represented in social partnership at the European level through our involvement in the ETUCE (European Trade Union Committee for Education). ETUCE have launched a campaign to secure a million signatures across the UK, calling on the European Commission to propose European legislation on public services designed to ensure that everyone has equal access to public services.