Lancaster District Fair Work Charter

Lancaster City Council is committed to building the long-term environmental, economic, and community success and resilience of our district. However, this can only be achieved through the collected efforts of the council, local employers, institutions, and industries working together to deliver on the many opportunities on offer to ensure our district continues to prosper in the face of continued economic challenges. As part of this work the council has launched a Fair Work Charter to help reduce inequalities within the local labour market by promoting equal and fair employment practices.

The Lancaster District Fair Work Charter sets out a shared ambition for good, fair, and secure work across our district. It is a voluntary commitment that employers of all sizes can sign up to—demonstrating that they value their workforce, invest in their people, and contribute to a thriving local economy.

Lancaster City Council is inviting employers, partners, and community organisations to endorse the Charter and help make the Lancaster district a place where fair work is the norm, not the exception.

What the Fair Work Charter is

The Lancaster District Fair Work Charter is a framework that:

• Defines what 'fair work' looks like in our local context
• Recognises and celebrates employers who are already doing the right things
• Encourages continuous improvement in employment practices over time

It is not a legal requirement or an accreditation scheme. Instead, it is a public pledge and a practical tool to help employers improve job quality, recruitment, retention, and staff wellbeing.

Our core principles of fair work

Employers signing the Charter commit to working towards the following principles. We recognise that organisations are at different stages—this is about progress, not perfection.

1. Fair pay and job security

2. Employee voice and good employee relations

3. Healthy, safe workplaces

4. Flexibility, diversity and equality

5. Development and fulfilment 

Why sign the Charter?

Becoming a Lancaster District Fair Work Charter employer can bring benefits for your organisation, your staff, and the wider community.

• Attract and retain talent: Fair, secure, and rewarding work helps you recruit and keep skilled staff
• Improve productivity: Engaged, supported employees are more productive and innovative
• Enhance reputation: Publicly demonstrating your commitment to fair work strengthens your brand
• Support the local economy: Good jobs help reduce in-work poverty and build a more resilient district
• Join a local network: Connect with other Charter employers to share ideas and good practice

How to sign up and further information

To find out more, download a copy of the Lancaster Fair Work Charter handbook .

To sign up to the Lancaster District Fair Work Charter simply complete this short self-assessment form.