On Duty
On Duty is based on the lived experience of Rita Maxim, a Caribbean migrant NHS worker and Union Shop Steward. She fought the management of St Mary’s Hospital, Harrow Road, Paddington, northwest London, against a new privatisation contract that meant Black health workers (ward orderly’s, cleaners, porters, and other auxiliary staff) would be working longer hours for less pay. The privatisation of British national industries and institutions was a major economic policy of Margaret Thatcher’s government during the 1980s.
On Duty was directed by Michael Hamilton, and the cast included Nadia Cattouse, James Christmas, Teresa Early, Tony Maxim, Yvonne Thomas and Michael Hamilton. It was first performed at the Carlton Community Centre, Kilburn, northwest London in 1983, and subsequently toured to various community based venues across London.
On Duty was made into a drama/documentary for Channel 4’s Eleventh Hour series and broadcast in 1984, and published by Akira Press, 1986.
Company portrait - L to R: Michael McMillan, Michael Hamilton, Teresa Early, Roger Gosiley, Tony Maxim, Yvonne Thomas. Seated at the front L to R: Nadia Cattouse and Rita Maxim. 1982.
