Early years and nurseries

UNISON is the largest union in early years and nurseries, representing members in support staff roles across the UK

Who we represent

We represent staff working with young children in nurseries, schools and children’s centres.

Our members work in a variety of roles, including:

early years and nursery staff;
nursery managers;
early years professionals/teachers;
family support workers;
health visitors;
midwives

We negotiate nationally, regionally and locally to improve pay, terms and conditions and job security for all early years workers.

UNISON campaigns to promote high quality services in the early years and improve the professional status and recognition of early years staff. We provide training and briefings on a range of topics including professional regulation, safeguarding and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

UNISON win for early years worker

A nursery worker was awarded almost £5000 after UNISON supported her claim for redundancy payment.

Emma Bunn worked at Lingwood Kindergarten, a private nursery, for more than sixteen years. But when the closed suddenly in October 2023, Emma’s employment was terminated and she was left with nothing to show for all her years of service.

Fortunately, as a UNISON member Emma had access to help. UNISON recognised that Emma was entitled to a redundancy payment that took into account her long employment at the nursery and supported her in placing a legal claim for the money she was owed.

In October 2024, her case came before an Employment Tribunal, with her legal representation provided through her UNISON membership. The tribunal found in Emma’s favour and awarded her a redundancy payment of just under £5000.

UNISON is delighted that our member will now receive the money she is owed.