Fair work in the foundational economy: a review of evidence

Economy
ReportsResourcesJune 2nd, 2021

With many workers’ conditions under threat, this landmark report reviews evidence of ‘what works’ to make work fair. 

There is no consistent definition of ‘fair work’, but key components include fair reward, jobs security and flexibility, opportunity for progression, a safe and inclusive work environment, and employee voice and collective representation.

The three overlapping approaches and constituent measures are:

  • public policy: the role and actions of government and institutions – including legislation, interventions along the ‘good employment’ pathway, learning and skills, wraparound policies, business/ sector-focused interventions, and place-based policies and strategic initiatives
  • employers: factors and changes which occur at the workplace level at the behest of employers – business models, strengthening management, and employer behaviour – including job design and innovation; signing up to external initiatives; internal initiatives; working with trade unions
  • employees coming together to promote fair work – including career development and job changing, nurturing social relations, encouraging involvement in trade unions, and WorkerTech initiatives:

Lessons for the foundational economy in Wales

  • Actions to advance the fair work agenda can take place at different levels – from the UK level to the Wales level to the local level, and at the firm, workplace and worker levels.
  • The fair work agenda is not just about a few discrete interventions. Rather it is about making the whole system work better. Working in partnership is crucial.
  • The Well-being of Future Generations Act provides a framework for addressing long-term fair work and related challenges.

Report format: PDF

Language: English

Pages: 39

Cost:  Free

Download

Search

Search and filter the archive using any of the following fields:

  • Choose Type:

  • Choose Focus:

  • Choose Tag:

Close