Good Employment Week returns to make economic case for ‘good’ work

Returning for its third year, Good Employment Week is inspiring employers in Stockport and across the city-region to prioritise good employment practices and to empower workers with the knowledge of what they should expect from their employers.

This year’s week comes as the Employment Rights Bill progresses through Parliament and represents the most significant reform of employment law in over thirty years. The Bill aims to tackle low pay, insecure work, and outdated employment practices.

Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, said:

“Every year, Good Employment Week gives us a chance to reflect on the kind of working lives we want to build – for ourselves, our communities, and our economy.

“As the country prepares for the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, we have a real opportunity to raise awareness of the protections every worker should expect – such as a ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts and new rights from day one of employment.

“This year, our message is bold and clear: good employment is your right.”

CLES, the national organisation for local economies, has recently tested the benefits for businesses of investing in conditions for employees by gathering financial data from Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter-affiliated organisations and through a series of interviews.

Whilst not conclusive, their financial analysis indicated that, of the 50 affiliated organisations who had financial data reported in 2019 and 2023, most experienced real-terms growth in turnover per employee in that period. This research suggests that good employers – those who invest in employee well-being, satisfaction, good pay and supportive work environments – experience higher productivity and profitability.

This week, the Charter is urging organisations to prepare now by embedding good employment practices that foster trust, engagement, and productivity.

Ian MacArthur, Director of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, said:

“Every day I see proof that organisations that invest in fair pay, secure work, employee voice, and inclusive practices get tangible business benefits. Good employment fosters trust and engagement, reduces turnover, and unlocks the full potential of the workforce. In a competitive economy, we know these factors contribute to higher levels of productivity.”