Greater Manchester’s Good Employment Charter Organizes First-Ever Good Employment Week to Advocate for Better Workplaces
The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, endorsed by Mayor Andy Burnham, has arranged a dedicated week from June 19th to June 24th to celebrate and promote good employment practices.
During Good Employment Week, several noteworthy events will take place, including a lecture by Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress, on the importance of good employment. Additionally, there will be a Best Practice Conference for employers and the launch of an educational pack for schools and colleges, aimed at helping young individuals understand the qualities of good work.
To evaluate job quality, employees will have the opportunity to complete an online job quiz that assesses various aspects of good employment in the city-region. This initiative aims to set higher standards for workplaces and empower workers with the knowledge of what they deserve from their employers.
The inaugural Good Employment Week aspires to inspire businesses throughout the city-region to prioritize fair and equitable employment practices. The event will bring together professionals, thought leaders, and industry experts to address crucial work-related issues. The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, along with its partners, has organized 25 events and activities to facilitate discussions and drive positive change.
With 91 members and 513 supporters, the Good Employment Charter represents over 600 employers in Greater Manchester, employing approximately 120,000 individuals within the region and half a million nationwide.
Mayor Andy Burnham expressed his pride in launching Greater Manchester’s Good Employment Week, highlighting the benefits of good employment for both employees and businesses. He emphasized the importance of creating an economy where every job is a good job, fostering happier, healthier, and more valued workers.
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council and GMCA Portfolio Lead for Economy and Business, encouraged individuals, businesses, and organizations to participate in the various events, activities, and the job quiz. She acknowledged the positive impact the Charter has already made on the lives of thousands of workers and emphasized the need to continue advocating for fairly paid, flexible, and secure work.
Lou Cordwell OBE, Chair of Greater Manchester Business Board (LEP), praised the Good Employment Charter’s contribution to strengthening the local economy. She encouraged those inspired by the events and activities of Good Employment Week to engage with the Charter team and explore opportunities for involvement. Cordwell emphasized that what is good for employees ultimately benefits businesses, leading to a range of reported advantages for companies that have joined the Charter.
Britannia Anchor Removals in Salford was awarded the Employer of the Year 2023 title by the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter.
Chris Smallwood, the owner of Britannia Anchor Removals, expressed his enthusiasm for Good Employment Week, which highlights the employers who prioritize their staff’s well-being. He emphasized the importance of creating good working conditions, beyond simply paying the Real Living Wage, and fostering a team ethic. Smallwood believed that good employment practices provide numerous benefits without increasing costs for consumers, ultimately contributing to a controlled inflation rate.
Good Employment Week’s schedule of events includes the official launch by Mayor Andy Burnham, who will present plaques to new Charter members. The week will also feature the Good Employment lecture delivered by Paul Nowak, the Good Employment Best Practice Conference, and the launch of the educational pack for schools and colleges. Registration is essential for all events.
To engage in the conversation surrounding good employment, individuals can follow the Good Employment Charter on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook (@GoodEmpCharter), as well as LinkedIn, using the hashtag #GoodEmploymentWeek for updates.
