Minister Kate Dearden visits York for Good Business Week

The praise came from Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden, who came to York yesterday (Thur) to see what businesses were doing on this as part of Good Business Week.

During her visit, the Minister met with employees at Hole in Wand, Spark CIC and York Gin, speaking to them about the positive impact of good working practices.

This follows the passing of the Employment Rights Act, which the government says will modernize the world of work for the 21st century.

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Reforms will range from a right to guaranteed hours to improved access to statutory sick pay, increased protection from unfair dismissal and day one entitlement to parental leave. These reforms, they say, will benefit over 18 million workers across the UK.

Employment Minister, Kate Dearden said: “It’s fantastic to see York leading the work on responsible business. That’s what our employment rights reforms are all about – making sure work pays and that everyone gets a fair deal.

“By delivering change together, we’re backing businesses who do the right thing and give hardworking people the job security and opportunities they deserve.”

In June 2021 York became the first Good Business Charter city with key employers in the city achieving accreditation and highlighting the importance of good business practices.

Led by the University of York and City of York Council, a range of businesses have chosen to hold themselves to account in how they treat their customers, colleagues, suppliers, society and the planet.

Recent local organisations who have achieved Good Business Charter accreditation include York College, nationally the second further education college to accredit, and York Minster Fund.

Sarah Leatherbarrow, Director of Marketing & External Partnerships at York College said: “We are delighted to have achieved accreditation from the Good Business Charter, which recognises our commitment to operating responsibly, treating people fairly, and doing business in a way that benefits our staff, partners, students and the wider community.”

Jenny Herrera, the York based CEO of the Good Business Charter, said: “Good Business Week is a nationwide, campaign primarily across social media, to raise awareness of just how important it is for businesses to act responsibly towards all their stakeholders.

“To have the Employment Rights Minister visit some of our customer facing businesses today and talk to workers is a fitting way to celebrate these great organisations who have taken a lead and a stand for responsible business behaviour.”

For more details on the GBC and Good Business Week, go to: www.goodbusinesscharter.com.