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Woodcraft Folk makes history as first community affiliate of the GFTU
General Secretary and CEO of Woodcraft Folk Lloyd Russell-Moyle (Woodcraft Folk) and GFTU general secretary Gawain Little at TUC Congress 2025 in Brighton [Pic: ©Henry Fowler]

WOODCRAFT FOLK has become the first ever community affiliate of the General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU).

A rule change agreed at the GFTU’s Biennial General Council Meeting in 2025 now allows national community organisations to apply for affiliation to the 127-year-old federation.

GFTU general secretary Gawain Little said: “The recruitment, development, and empowerment of young people within the trade union movement is fundamental to its renewal. 

“This partnership is a vital step in building a stronger bridge between the trade union movement and young people.”

Noting that only 8 per cent of employees aged 16-24 are in trade unions, he added: “It’s time our movement addressed that.”

Woodcraft Folk general secretary and CEO Lloyd Russell-Moyle said the affiliation demonstrates “our renewed commitment to educate young people on trade unionism in the 21st century.” 

Describing the GFTU as “a perfect partner,” he highlighted their work together at Camp 100, which introduced thousands of young people to trade unions.

“Our work to promote co-operation, equality, and collective power closely aligns with the values of the GFTU,” he said. 

“We look forward to deepening our relationship.”

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