London Play

Working for a capital where all children can play

Trade unions

The Community and Youth Workers Union (CYWU), Amicus and Unison all represent the professional interests of playworkers.

The CYWU describes itself as a "small friendly union with all the benefits and services and legal protections offered by massive unions plus some more on top". Established since 1938, they offer free, accredited training courses on all aspects of work to help develop your interests and raise your qualifications. They campaign for more resources and better legislation to support youth, play and community services, and represent youth, play and community workers on a range of national and regional and local bodies.

Amicus is one of the largest unions in the UK, and describes itself as "dedicated to improving their standard of living and the quality of their lives through effective relationships with employers and government."

Unison is the largest union in the community and voluntary sector with more than 51,000 members. Their members work in non-profit organisations ranging from large national charities with hundreds of employees to small-grant aided projects employing one part-timer. They provide a range of services to local communities and campaign on all sorts of issues.