04 Supporting young members


We need to be welcoming more young journalists to the NUJ by promoting the union’s benefits and offering support, says president Natasha Hirst


E


ngaging young members is crucial to building a strong and relevant union that reflects the evolving challenges of


our industry. We know exploitation is rife for those starting their careers in journalism and publishing and this is the time when union membership is most important. During the past year, a number of meetings held for early career members have provided important


insights into the issues they experience at work and their expectations of the union. Unsurprisingly, the top concerns


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Go to the student recruitment website page.


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were low pay and precarious contracts. Tey spoke of the stress of managing student debt, cost of living rises and rent hikes while working in an environment where the threat of redundancies oſten looms. Tey felt there was litle sense of professional development and career progression and they were unable to plan for their future. Newspaper companies are closing offices, leaving young journalists feeling isolated as they work from home, without the benefit of working alongside more experienced colleagues. Despite feeling passionately about journalism, the cold reality of poor pay is making some look to other careers, while others already have second jobs. Chapels and branches have been an important source of support and we must continue


to communicate our wins and campaigning work to make them


more visible to young members. We face the challenge of communicating


the value of NUJ membership to workers and freelances weighing up the costs of subs in difficult financial circumstances and who oſten lack wider awareness of the role of trade unions. Te union’s profile shows that


younger blood is needed so it can be more representative and responsive to young journalists’ needs and to ensure the NUJ’s future. We have some amazing young reps and we must do all we can to foster involvement and create a new generation of activists. Branches can provide a vital link


between local journalism students and the union. I atended a recent event at the School of Journalism, Media and Culture in Cardiff where working journalists provided valuable insights into the industry and how to improve chances of securing work. Questions ranged from how to use social media to promote or gain work, how to pitch stories and different career paths to consider. Te key message was the importance of networking and building experience and this is where branches are invaluable. Students who engage with supportive branches have the benefit of learning from colleagues – and, don’t forget, there are plenty resources on the NUJ website.


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