Chris and zero-hours contracts

It’s good to be involved, because I know all of us at work will get better job security if the union’s recognised. I’m active in my union outside of the hotel, though.

I’ve been putting a lot of time into the successful Sports Direct shame campaign. We pushed them hard. We were on social media, outside their shops, and our #SportsDirectShame banner travelled the country.

Because of the campaign, Sports Direct have dropped zero hours in their shops. There’s a lot more to do, but it shows that unions can make a massive difference. Thanks to our campaign, more people will have guaranteed hours at work – which means guaranteed pay.

I’m 24, and I’m determined to show other young workers the power and importance of unions – and to keep growing and learning.

Being involved in the union has helped my confidence and has shown me that it’s OK to make mistakes when building campaigns, as you learn from them. It is always important to try new ways of engaging people.

Campaigns like the one we’ve run are a great way to recruit younger members and show what unions can do to improve their lives. When you’re young, it’s all too easy to get shafted by your boss with low hours, no rights, and no security.