Greater Manchester’s push for fair work reaches milestone

AN initiative designed to promote good employment practices across Greater Manchester has just marked a milestone.

The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter has grown from just six members when it launched in 2020 to 128 members and nearly 1,000 supporters.

A voluntary membership and assessment scheme, the Charter has employers from all sectors and sizes – including local organisations such as Tameside Council and Power2.

Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham. Image by GMCA

But the Mayor of Greater Manchester has stated that ‘our mission is far from over’.

Andy Burnham said: “As we celebrate five years of progress, I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has contributed to our success – our members and supporters, the Charter team, and the wide range of partner organisations who have championed our movement.

“The Charter began with a clear ambition: to make Greater Manchester a place where working for a good employer is the norm, not the exception. Our members and supporters have made a clear commitment to fair pay, secure work and flexible working – and in return benefit from better productivity and staff retention.

“But our mission is far from over. We want to grow our movement even further and raise employment standards in all jobs across Greater Manchester.”

The Charter’s director, Ian MacArthur, says its members now regularly report higher retention rates and increased productivity.

He added: “Looking ahead, the Charter is now the place where employers of all sizes and sectors can join others in readiness for the forthcoming employment rights legislation.

“To be part of the good employment movement, employers should sign up as a Charter Supporter. The Charter will continue to lead the way to ensure Greater Manchester is synonymous with good work and opportunity for all.”

More information about the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter and how to become a member can be found at www.gmgoodemploymentcharter.co.uk