This sculpture, Casuals, can be found on Salford Quays as part of the sculpture trail by Stephen Broadbent in 2010 with the help of former Salford Dock workers and their families.
“Each metal structure in this installation represents a dock workers union card. They are arranged in separate groups emphasising the divide between those in and out of work. Dockers needed a union card to qualify for work. Labour was on a casual basis, and men gathered at the Dock gates every morning and afternoon to compete for jobs. Those chosen on merit were selected like cattle for their strength, coordination and speed. The rest returned home disappointed, without a wage. A number of former dockers and their families gave interviews for this project. Some of their names and photographs feature on the cards.”
Lois Elsden 