On 2nd April 2025 we joined over 100 good employers, unions, and business leaders at City Hall to celebrate the refreshed Good Work Standard (GWS) – updated to reflect the evolving world of work and upcoming employment rights legislation.
It was an honour to hear from the Deputy Mayor of London who highlighted the importance of ensuring good work for all across the capital. We also received insights from Trade Union Congress, Acas, the Living Wage Foundation, and other leading employers about their ongoing work to elevate employment standards. The discussions around the future of work, inclusive recruitment, and disability smart workplaces – in addition to the portrait exhibition (featuring our very own Debbie and Monique!) truly showcased the real-life impact of better workplaces.
Silver Birch Care represented the social care sector in the original GWS steering committee, and were one of the first official GWS employers. We were thrilled to be selected for one of their case study films designed to showcase best practice in fair pay, employee wellbeing, skills and progression, and inclusive recruitment. We had a fantastic time filming at our head office, where the GWS team captured our approach to good work – with the aim of inspiring others to raise the bar across the capital. Watch the video below!
The Mayor’s GWS sets the benchmark for best employment practices in London. Employers accredited to the Standard demonstrate their commitment to fair pay, security, and employee wellbeing, ensuring that their workplaces offer stability, support, and opportunities for all.
The updated Good Work Standard strengthens commitments on:
- Fair pay – Accredited employers must pay the London Living Wage, ensuring employees earn enough to meet the real cost of living.
- Secure contracts – A stronger stance on zero-hours contracts, reinforcing fair notice periods for shifts and protection against cancelled work without pay.
- Employee wellbeing – Updated guidance on paid leave, flexible working, menopause action plans, sick pay, and whistleblowing protections.
- Progression and skills – Ensuring employees have access to training, career development, and progression opportunities.
- Diversity and inclusion – Clearer commitments to inclusive recruitment and equal opportunities.
These updates reflect the changing nature of work and the government’s ‘New Deal for Working People’ ensuring that London’s leading employers remain at the forefront of good employment practices.
Why good work matters
Businesses that invest in fair and responsible employment benefit from:
- Higher staff retention and engagement – Fair pay and job security lead to more motivated and productive employees.
- Recognised leadership – Accreditation as a Good Work Standard employer demonstrates leadership in ethical business practices.
- A more inclusive workforce – Clearer commitments to diversity and inclusion help businesses attract and retain top talent from all backgrounds.
The GWS is not just about improving working conditions – it is about creating a more resilient and prosperous economy for all Londoners. By committing to these standards, businesses contribute to a fairer, more inclusive, and more successful London, where workers and employers can thrive. To read more about the Mayor’s GWS, please click here.
