December 6, 2016
The Work Foundation launches Commission on Good Work 0
The Work Foundation, part of Lancaster University, has launched a new Commission on Good Work. The commission will seek answers to key questions such as ‘why is a focus on good work so important now?’, ‘what does good work mean in a modern economy?’ and ‘how do we achieve good work?’ The initiative was launched by Work Foundation Director Lesley Giles who invited stakeholders from businesses, trade unions, professional bodies, and the public and voluntary sectors to be part of a ‘Good Work Taskforce.’ Supporting the launch were Sir Charlie Mayfield (John Lewis Partnership), Dame Fiona Kendrick (Nestle),Douglas McCormick (Sweett Group), Mark Keese (OECD), Gail Cartmail (Unite), Peter Cheese CIPD, Scott Johnson (a small business owner) and Professor Paul Sparrow (Lancaster University Management School).
The Commission’s detailed objectives are to:
- Understand what “Good Work” is
- Ensure how “Good Work” is at the heart of rebuilding the economy
- Secure sustainable improvements in productivity and social prosperity
- Understand businesses that are profitable through people
- Explore careers of the future
- Address the challenges and barriers to “Good Work.”
“Research findings repeatedly show Good Work is a critical way not only to enhance business performance but to drive social prosperity,” said Lesley Giles. “The launch of this new Commission, and a new strategic focus for the Work Foundation, could not be timelier in light of the current political, technological and social climate. I’m delighted to be driving this agenda forwards.”
Professor Angus Laing, Dean at Lancaster University Management School, commented, “At a time of great industrial and political upheaval it is vital that academic research pushes progress and development. Here at Lancaster, we pride ourselves in the applicability of our research and the Work Foundation helps us articulate our academic expertise in ways that will drive agendas and instigate change.”
