Members at Cutty Sark secure better working conditions

This summer, Prospect members at Cutty Sark successfully campaigned to address extreme heat and direct sunlight exposure at the site. The admissions desk, located under a large glass canopy, created a greenhouse effect inside. Staff working the south-facing desk were subjected to direct sunlight at any hour of the day, leading to heat exhaustion, migraines, and general discomfort. Concerns raised to management initially went largely unaddressed, leaving team members feeling dismissed and disillusioned.

The situation escalated during the first summer heatwave, with indoor temperatures consistently reaching around 35°C and no additional support measures in place. In response, the team launched a petition, gathering 100% of signatures from Visitor and Sales Assistants in just 48 hours. The petition called for:

• Improved air conditioning

• Provision of sunscreen

• Handheld electric fans

• An additional 10-minute break for staff on long summer shifts

• Shade for the admissions desk

While many smaller demands were implemented quickly, securing shade for the front desk proved more challenging. Dissatisfied with management’s response, the team escalated their campaign by submitting mass health & safety incident reports, effectively “flooding” the Health & Safety manager’s inbox.

Senior management then arranged a meeting, inviting a few team members to discuss next steps. Although the team requested the meeting be held on their terms, management proceeded, and a parasol was installed just two days later.

Despite the stress of the final stages, the campaign’s success was deeply gratifying. It not only improved working conditions but also strengthened team unity, proving what can be achieved when staff come together to advocate for their safety and well-being.