New Fair Employment Charter launched to boost employment standard

Blackpool Council has unveiled an innovative Fair Employment Charter, aimed at making the town a better place to work and do business.

Launched on 1 May 2025 to coincide with International Workers’ Day and developed with input from residents, employers and trade unions, the charter sets out a bold, inclusive vision to raise employment standards, improve job quality and drive economic growth across the region. 

The new charter, designed to be flexible and accessible, offers employers the opportunity to participate at introductory or advanced levels, using a modular framework tailored to their existing strengths and areas for development.  

It covers key employment themes including job security, fair pay, flexible working, workplace conditions and training and development - with an aim to create a happier, more skilled and productive community. 

Employers can choose modules relevant to their business and apply for different levels (from one to three, with three being the highest accreditation level possible) of recognition based on their current practices. Those achieving the highest standards across all modules will be awarded full accreditation. 

Participation in the scheme is free of charge, with no membership or sign-up fees. 

Over time, there is potential to measure the scheme by the impact on employment in the town, such as a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in training and employment, along with higher average earnings.  

Depending on the uptake of specific elements of the charter, other potential indicators of success may include an increase in permanent employment opportunities, a reduction in reliance on temporary or irregular contracts and the development of a strong, locally based workforce that brings wider benefits to the town and its communities. 

Councillor Jo Farrell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Blackpool Council said:

“This is a significant step towards building a fairer, stronger economy in Blackpool.  

“By encouraging good employment practices, we are not only supporting local workers – we are also creating the conditions for business success, talent retention, and sustainable growth.

“Inspired by successful models in other regions and shaped by Blackpool’s specific needs, the charter offers employers a simple yet impactful way to improve the workplace environment, ensuring that Blackpool remains an attractive and thriving place to live and work.” 

Blackpool Council is working closely with local business networks and employment services to ensure participants are supported with tools such as staff training packages and template policies, as well as recruitment and mentoring opportunities.

Blackpool Transport gets on board with the new employment charter 

Blackpool Transport Services Ltd, one of the first local organisations to pilot the Fair Employment Charter, recently achieved Level 3, demonstrating their commitment by meeting the highest standards of accreditation. 

With over 600 employees, across a range of roles including bus and tram drivers, conductors, customer service staff, management positions and more - joining the charter aligned perfectly with their values for their dedicated workforce. 

Jade Bambrook, Head of Organisational Development at Blackpool Transport adds:  

"We are delighted to have been working with Blackpool Borough Council to pilot the Fair Employment Charter.  

“As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome the Fair Employment Charter as a means to encourage not just Blackpool Transport, but all local businesses to make progressive changes which can positively impact the health and wellbeing of employees.  

"We're proud to have achieved the top level in the charter and will continue to support, develop and engage our colleagues at every level". 

If you are a local business and would like to find out more about the Fair Employment Charter, visit www.blackpool.gov.uk/EmploymentCharter