As I mentioned in my previous blog, we have started gathering your input for the new CLA catering. This is now in full swing. We are visiting catering locations and speaking with colleagues who want to share their stories with us. When I say we, I mean my colleagues and I. We work together as a whole team to gather your input. Everyone helps out and does so with great enthusiasm. Visiting colleagues on the work floor is one of the most enjoyable things we do!
We see that the survey has already been completed by many colleagues. We are extremely pleased with this. We have great conversations, are warmly welcomed, and feel at home. Thank you for that! Haven’t we visited your location yet? No worries, we might still come. In some places, we can't just walk in and need to make an appointment first. Can you help with that? Let us know. We are keen to visit and hear what you find important for the new CLA.
What’s happening on the work floor?
The stories we hear are diverse. Sometimes they are similar, sometimes they are really different. That makes sense because the employment conditions for, for example, educational catering are not exactly the same as those for company catering. However, there are themes that recur everywhere. Many colleagues indicate that wages could be higher. Another comment I heard is about dual management: not only your supervisor from the catering company but also the client often has an opinion about your work. This sometimes causes confusion or extra work pressure. And what also clearly emerges is the lack of colleagues. Staffing is sometimes tight, and you can feel it.
Wages, control over your work, and the attractiveness of the sector are all themes that are very much alive. But there is more going on. Some topics we know inside out, others are new or are now receiving more attention. The personal stories of colleagues provide a lot of insight into this. For instance, a colleague told us about her transition from hospitality to catering. This meant less salary for her, but more time for her family. She consciously chose more balance between work and private life, as with young children, that was most important to her. It’s a story that resonates and clearly shows how significant the impact of good employment conditions can be on someone’s life.
Balance between work and private life is not just a luxury. It is a basic requirement. When that balance is missing, we see that people drop out more quickly or even leave the sector. Especially in a sector where a lot is demanded of your commitment, flexibility, and involvement, it is important that you also have time for what else you find important. This applies to the colleague with young children, but just as much to the colleague who is a carer or simply needs rest outside of work. Good employment conditions make the difference.
We keep listening, will you keep participating?
In the coming weeks, we will continue gathering, visiting, listening, and taking stock. Your voice counts. So make sure it is heard. Whether through the survey or in a conversation on location. Haven’t seen us yet and still want to share your story? Get in touch with us. Because only together can we work on a new CLA that truly fits what is needed.
Regards,
Annemieke Jacobs
Catering and recreation officer