Fair Work First
The Scottish Government has introduced a policy entitled ‘Fair Work First’ designed to ‘drive high quality and fair work, and workforce diversity across the labour market in Scotland.’ The requirements within the policy apply to all organisations being awarded public sector contracts and grants after 1st July 2023.
As a recipient of a wide range of Scottish Government grants including local authority care and support contracts, new build grants and those which support net zero and financial assistance for our customers, Trust must be able to demonstrate our commitment to Fair Work First practices.
The guidelines state that fair work offers ‘effective voice, fulfilment, opportunity, respect and security in work….’ and require organisations to demonstrate that these principles are visible in their attitudes, behaviours, culture, policies and practice. It outlines seven criteria that we must demonstrate:
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Payment of at least the Real Living Wage;
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Provide appropriate channels for effective workers' voice;
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Investment in workforce development;
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No inappropriate use of zero hours contracts;
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Action to tackle the gender pay gap and create a more diverse and inclusive workplace;
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Offer flexible and family friendly working practices for all workers from day one of employment; and,
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Oppose the use of fire and rehire practice.
We are proud that at Trust the principles of fair work are already integrated into our culture, values and practices, from how we come together as one Trust to support our customers and each other during the most difficult of times, to achieving external recognition such as Investors in People Platinum status. And from March 2024, Trust will meet all of the criteria required for Fair Work First.