Businesses and charities encouraged to apply for Government’s fair work grants

Business and charities are being encouraged to apply for Scottish Government grants to support fair work practices.

They will be able to claim £50,000 per project from the fairer workplaces fund, which is worth a total of £350,000.

The money is intended to help workplaces promote flexible working and improve diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI).

Organisations which apply must show they pay the real living wage to all staff and offer an “effective voice” to workers.

The fund has opened for applications, which must be received by September 2.

On Monday, Employment Minister Tom Arthur visited McAllister Litho Glasgow, a commercial print company, to learn about its approach to fair work.

Mr Arthur said: “Offering flexible shift patterns, remote working and making workplaces more accessible are among the relatively simple steps that can help more people into work and ensure they are able to stay there.

“They are also good for business. Experience shows that adopting fair work practices can help recruitment and improve staff retention.

“This new fund and the dissemination of the learning from it will help more companies – and Scotland’s wider economy – reap those benefits.

“The company I’m visiting today demonstrate how supporting your workforce goes hand-in-hand with running a successful company.”

Janette McAllister, owner of McAllister Litho, said: “The implementation of flexible working at McAllister Litho Glasgow has resulted in a happier and more satisfied workforce.

“Employee happiness translates into ongoing loyalty and hard work, ultimately benefiting the business.”