The Good Business Charter Fortnight: A Part of Something Bigger

In 2022, Dawsongroup became an accredited member of the Good Business Charter (GBC). In fact, we were one of the first thousand companies to join!

Growing our business from a single truck, we have always known that we were part of something bigger than ourselves. Our business exists within the mechanism of society and being aware of our social, economic and environmental responsibilities is vital. It is foundational, a compass guiding our business forward, and we couldn’t be more proud to be a part of an organisation that aims to make ethical and sustainable business operations the norm.

What is the Good Business Charter?

The GBC was originally founded in 2020 as an independent, not-for-profit organisation committed to creating a benchmark for good, responsible business practices. To be a member of the GBC, companies are required to meet ten measured components. During the application process, companies are carefully monitored with appropriate checks to ensure these are met, and once they are, the GBC accreditation is awarded.

The GBC doesn’t use a scaled system, companies are either members or not. This ‘all or nothing’ system was specifically designed to bring every member to the same level, ensuring that responsible business is held to the same standard everywhere.

What Are the Components?

The GBC’s ten components have been specifically designed to cover employee care, social responsibility, the environment, and the treatment of suppliers and customers.

To qualify for the GBC, businesses must pay all staff a real living wage, guarantee fairer hours, contracts, include fair and clear policies to improve employee wellbeing, ensure that all employees are fairly represented, commit to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, take environmental responsibility, pay their taxes in line with the spirit of the law, prioritise excellent service for customers, and commit to ethical sourcing.

These components push companies to improve across the board, creating a sustainable, supportive environment. However, the GBC is clear that this is just the beginning of redefining good business and encourages members to invest more in social values.

What is the Good Business Charter Fortnight?

Over the next two weeks, we will be joining the Good Business Charter in celebrating the outstanding efforts of businesses across the UK that are championing and modelling responsible practices. We will be sharing the impact and influence of our own employees and raising awareness of the importance of being a business that is part of something bigger.

We look forward to sharing more with you over the next two weeks and beyond!