Integrated agency Social is among the first wave of businesses to sign up to the Good Business Charter.  The accreditation, which recognises good business behaviour, was launched in February this year.

The Living Wage Foundation campaigns for the idea that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. It celebrates and recognises the leadership of responsible employers who choose to go further and pay a wage based on the cost of living, not just the government minimum.

Social, which began trading seven years ago, has always been rooted in people – from looking after its staff and building a sustainable culture, to giving a voice to hard-to-reach groups through successful planning consultations and campaigns.  Key initiatives include:

• LifeHappens – the business’ commitment to its staff and clients. When the unexpected happens, the business has their backs.
• Twice-yearly development days for all staff, sharing progress and challenges so everyone understands their role in the big picture.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Investing in learning and development for its emerging leaders, with regular sessions from external experts, covering business planning, action learning and effective team working, among other things.
• Supporting charities and good causes through pro bono work and direct donations.

John Quinton-Barber, Group Chief Executive and founder, said: “I am really pleased to sign up to the Good Business Charter.  From day one I was committed to running a business that made a positive social impact and I have maintained it as we have grown to become a national agency.  We have always put people first in our business and the Good Business Charter gave us an opportunity to share and celebrate our achievements in this field.”

The Good Business Charter was established by entrepreneur Julian Richer and its accreditation process is run in partnership with Living Wage Foundation, the Ethical Trading Initiative and the Prompt Payment Code.  It seeks to raise the bar on business practices for employees, tax, the environment, customers and suppliers.  For further information go to the Good Business Charter’s website.

For further information on the Living Wage Foundation visit www.livingwage.org.uk.