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The Manager Who Changed Everything (And Probably Didn’t Even Know It)

In this guest blog for the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, Jillian Simpson reflects on the manager who quietly changed the course of her working life — and what that experience tells us about good management today.

Through a personal story rooted in early working life, this piece explores how everyday management behaviours shape confidence, wellbeing and long‑term attachment to work. It’s a reminder that good employment isn’t just set out in policies, but experienced through relationships — and that better management should be the standard, not a matter of chance.

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The Finish Line We’ve Lost: A Practical Guide to Tackling Workplace Stress | City Wellbeing Series
As we mark Stress Awareness Month this April, many organisations are exploring practical ways to support healthier, more connected teams. In this guest blog, Nick Rusling introduces the idea of “finish line thinking” — a simple, evidence‑based approach that helps employees pause, reset, and acknowledge moments of completion throughout the workday. He explains how small, intentional pauses and shared milestones can reduce pressure, strengthen connection, and create healthier patterns of working. With the Greater Manchester Wellbeing Series offering collective moments to aim for, this piece encourages employers to embed everyday practices that genuinely support wellbeing and foster a more resilient workplace culture.
Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter Plaques on a table

The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter: a Strategic Imperative for the North West

Good employment is now a strategic priority for every organisation in the North West. In this blog, Neal Chamberlain FCIPD explores why the region’s economic success depends not only on growth and investment, but on the quality of work we create. He highlights how the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter provides a practical framework for fair pay, inclusion, skills development and employee voice — and why aligning around shared standards is essential for long‑term regional prosperity.

 

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From Inclusion to Infrastructure: Why Good Mental Health is essential in the Workplace | Queerwell
In this guest blog for LGBT+ History Month, Tim Spoor MBE, CEO of Queerwell, explores why LGBTQIA+ employees continue to face higher levels of stress and burnout — even in organisations committed to inclusion. He explains how workplace design, not identity, drives disparities, and outlines practical steps employers can take to build psychologically safe, preventative, and equitable systems. A must‑read for employers serious about wellbeing, retention, and meaningful inclusion.

 

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How To Coach Your Team | Catherine Stothart
Discover why a coaching mindset is essential for modern managers. Leadership expert Catherine Stothart shares practical tips to overcome barriers, avoid common pitfalls, and harness the power of the GROW model—helping your team thrive in a hybrid workplace.

 

Ian MacArthur and Carol Halford Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter

Reflecting on 2025: Another Landmark Year for the Good Employment Charter
Discover the highlights of 2025 for the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter. From national recognition and the Employment Rights Bill to the launch of the Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice and Good Employment Week, explore how we’ve championed good work and shaped the future of employment.

 

Navigating the Tides of Change: What the Employment Rights Bill Means for Small Businesses | Robert Downes

The Employment Rights Bill (ERB) is set to introduce significant changes to UK employment law, aiming to strengthen worker protections and modernise workplace practices. In this guest blog, Robert Downes from the Federation of Small Businesses shares his perspective on what these proposals could mean for small businesses, including potential challenges and opportunities.

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Employ those with convictions - It’s good for business... | Nornir Social Enterprise

Greater Manchester’s Enhanced Community Payback scheme helps employers recruit motivated ex-offenders while supporting victim recovery. Businesses benefit from reduced recruitment costs, improved retention, and stronger social impact. Learn how this innovative approach is transforming lives and workplaces across the region.

Good Employment Week 2024 Tram

Good Employment Week 2025

Good Employment Week is a region-wide campaign led by the Good Employment Charter, spotlighting what good employment looks like and why it matters for Greater Manchester’s growth. The 2025 campaign focuses on the upcoming Employment Rights Bill — the biggest change to UK employment law in over a decade — and aims to help employers understand the new standards, share best practice, and build resilient, productive workplaces.