Local businesses can now apply for accreditation to the Croydon Good Employer Charter (GEC) and become members of the Good Employer Network.
The charter which is free to join, officially launched on Tuesday morning at the inaugural Croydon GEC Business Breakfast held at TMRW Hub.
Businesses can apply to become accredited members of the Good Employer Network if they meet the charter’s criteria made up of four key elements:
Pay Living Wage is a commitment to paying their employees London Living Wage, a wage rate higher than the government’s National Minimum Wage because it is calculated according to the cost of living.
Employ Local asks businesses to agree to support the creation of jobs and training opportunities for Croydon residents by considering them for positions in their organisation and where possible employing locally. Businesses can work in partnership with Croydon Works, the council’s free recruitment service which links high quality, job-ready candidates with potential employers.
Buy Local asks businesses to support the local economy by investing in the local supply chain and local business. Businesses will be given the opportunity to register with Value Croydon to promote procurement and supply chain opportunities.
Include All asks businesses to commit to being an inclusive employer by promoting equality and diversity in the workplace and implementing best practice for employee support.
The charter will give local businesses the opportunity to be recognised as a good local employer.
Accredited businesses will become members of the Good Employer Network, which aims to help them adopt responsible business practices and gives access to local contacts, suppliers, other local businesses and opportunities whilst sharing knowledge with their peers.
They will also gain access to Good Employer learning, quarterly business breakfast briefings and regular networking events.
The first 100 SME businesses that become accredited with GEC in 2017/18 can also apply for a one-off business rate discount of up to £1,000.
Local businesses that are not yet ready to become accredited can stay in touch with the network by committing to supporting the charter and pledging to work towards accreditation.
Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs
“I am delighted the Croydon Good Employer Charter has now officially launched and local businesses can join the network and get the recognition they deserve.
“Croydon’s vision is for all of the borough’s businesses to become accredited members to help us achieve a diverse and dynamic local economy to the benefit of all.”
To become accredited, pledge your business’ support or for more information about the network visit http://www.goodemployercroydon.com/
