Good Work

In the context of crises like the pandemic and cost of living crisis, there is an urgent need for policies to encourage an increased investment in advocating decent work and an inclusive economy in regions like the Midlands. For example, attention needs to be focused on creating good jobs in the foundational everyday economy and green sectors, as well as improving the quality of existing jobs; for example, by paying a real living wage, ensuring security of minimum living hours, and supporting collective employee voice and trade union representation.

The session will identify research and policy ideas in support of good jobs and decent work in the Midlands, which are also applicable in other regions that have been implementing Fair Work and Responsible Business charters.

13.00     Buffet lunch               

13.30     Welcome/Introduction, Holly Birkett, Jo Duberley Tony Dobbins, Daniel Wheatley

13.40     Good Work, the Covid-19 Crisis and its aftermath Anne Green (UoB)

14.10     Midlands Good Work Charter, Acas

14.40     Anna Thomas (Institute for the Future of Work)

15.10     Break

15.30     Good administrative work in the NHS: Making non-clinical staff positively visible,Jennifer Knights (UoB)

16.00     Better jobs, better economy, Lee Barron (Trades Union Congress)

16.30     Title TBC, Chris Warhurst (University of Warwick)

17.00     Finish    

Programme (Chairs: Tony Dobbins and Daniel Wheatley)