How to spot a Good Employer with the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter

While looking for a new job, it’s always important to consider the basics- where is the job based? What will I be doing as part of the role? Something that’s also important to  consider is whether the employer has strong employment practices  in place to support its employees- and that’s where the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter comes in.

The Good Employment Charter helps organisations in Greater Manchester create great places to work, creating a network of employers dedicated to positive change in employment standards. By using the Charter as a guide, you can identify employers who create environments where people can thrive.

How can you spot a good employer?

They pay the Real Living Wage

The Real Living Wage is currently at £11.44 per hour, with a rise to £12.60 per hour required by April 2025 - this is the wage rate based on the cost of living in the UK (it’s higher in London) and goes beyond the government’s living wage. It’s voluntarily paid by over 15,000 UK businesses who believe their staff deserve a wage that meets everyday needs. So, when you’re checking out the salary for a new job, see if it meets the living wage standard

The work is secure and flexible

Employers committed to the Good Employment Charter are tasked with making sure that the work they offer is “secure”- this means clear, set out shifts and contracts with a minimum of 16 hours a week (unless you request otherwise) meaning a steady stream of work and income.

Flexibility in work can come from employers that offer shifts that blend with your life easier- maybe working alternate hours so that you can pick up your children, for instance, or offering remote working alternatives. When reviewing a job ad, see if it mentions flexible working policies – transparency in a job description reflects an employer’s commitment.

Your wellbeing as their employee is a priority

Good employers prioritise the physical and mental health of all of their employees.  They make adjustments for people with long term conditions and disabilities, provide robust health and safety measures, and go above and beyond to support all forms of wellbeing (e.g. physical, mental, financial).

When researching your next job role, see what support and consideration the employer is offering- usually when an employer is proudly supportive of their employees’ health and wellbeing, they’ll include it on their website or in their vacancies.

Fair and inclusive recruitment practices

A good employer ensures that their recruitment process is fair, inclusive, and transparent. They actively engage with diverse communities and create pathways for all candidates to succeed, regardless of background. Look out for statements about diversity, equality and inclusion, initiatives like the Disability Confident scheme or Ban the Box, and job adverts that are clearly outlined and specific.

They invest in people management

Strong people management is essential to good employment. Employers should offer training programs, leadership development, and have inclusive management practices. Depending on the role you’re looking for – keep an eye out for wording around progression and development and ask the right questions at interview to ensure this is prioritised by your potential employer.

Practical tips

To identify good employers in Greater Manchester, start by researching the employer on their website, and checking if they are listed on the Good Employment Charter website as a ‘Supporter’ or ‘Member’. Check employee review platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed, and look at their social media for posts that showcase their workplace culture.

Spotting these signs can help you to find a new job somewhere where you feel respected, nurtured, and your time is appropriately compensated. For more information on the Good Employment Charter, you can visit their website by clicking here.

To find local jobs in Greater Manchester, try our job searcher, located here.