In October 2021, we held our first in-person event since March 2020, inviting employers to join us in a discussion of the development of people management skills. Prompted by our recent paper, which discusses the importance, implementation and effect of positive people management skills, we held a roundtable event. This event was the culmination of our ongoing campaign with CIPD North, and Acas North West. This blog summarises the key points from the event, and ends with the full livestream recording and a list of relevant resources.

The pandemic has placed barriers on our typical communication techniques. And, more than ever, has raised the need for an organisational culture where people can voice their concerns, and make a difference. In September, we had a Supporters’ Network Event on employee voice – where we explored ways in which employers can integrate innovative ideas at the touch of a button, utilising virtual techniques of receiving employee feedback.

It's critical that employees are given the support they need to stay healthy, and succeed at work. Menopause, whilst being a natural stage of life, remains a taboo topic for many. Our July Supporters’ Network Event discussed how employers can better support employees who are affected – whether they are experiencing symptoms themselves or are offering professional or personal support to others.

Many employers are eager to create an LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace, and will have taken initial steps towards this. However, good intentions are not enough to embed a truly inclusive culture, and employers need to implement practical actions to achieve inclusivity. Our June Supporters’ Network event discussed how employers can be better informed around the LGBTQ+ community, and how they can implement a more open culture in their workplace. 

Our recent Supporters Network Event was on the move to hybrid working, and how employers can manage this transition. The Covid-19 pandemic forced many organisations to trial home working for the first time. A variety of benefits have been found, and the conversation of adopting a hybrid way of working is a key topic in employment. As we move out of the third lockdown, the questions around returning to the workplace have increased in importance. 

Many of Greater Manchester’s good employers live and breathe their corporate values. They set out a caring and responsible attitude to their employees and supply chains. Many go further, acknowledging their wider responsibility to the communities around them and the environment – understanding the bottom line of people, planet, and profit. Our last Supporters Network Event explored how organisations can develop their broader corporate responsibilities.