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  5. Fair Work rights

Fair Work rights

3 minute read • Last published: 25 February 2025

Fair Work aims to balance the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees by creating benefits for everyone such as increased participation, improved productivity, and wider distribution of wealth within local communities.

Work is fair when it provides:

  • An effective voice – clear channels of communication and a safe environment for employees to discuss, listen and be heard, encouraging employee engagement.
  • Opportunity – everyone who wants to can access, develop and progress in work.
  • Security – stability and predictability of work, including hours and income.
  • Fulfilment – opportunities to develop, use skills and advance their career.
  • Respect – every employee’s health, wellbeing and safety is respected regardless of role and status.

In this article:

  • What does Fair Work mean for tourism and event sector businesses?
  • What does Fair Work mean for employees?
  • Practical steps to implement Fair Work

What does Fair Work mean for tourism and event sector businesses?

The Fair Work Framework was developed by the Fair Work Convention, set up in 2016. Fair Work can be a significant driver of productivity for Scotland and helps to ensure that growth is inclusive.

  • Boost employee engagement and retention

    By paying fair wages, promoting flexible working, and fostering a supportive environment, you can create a more engaged, productive, and loyal workforce. This can reduce staff turnover and absenteeism.

  • Improve reputation and your social responsibility profile

    Event attendees, customers, and partners are becoming more aware of ethical and fair treatment in the workplace. Demonstrating genuine commitment to Fair Work can enhance your brand’s reputation as responsible and values driven.

  • Strengthen funding applications and procurement opportunities

    Public sector organisations offering grants will ask you for evidence of Fair Work practices. If you can demonstrate that you pay fair wages, offer secure employment, and value staff input, you are more likely to succeed in funding applications.

What does Fair Work mean for employees?

Fair Work means that workers are:

  • Fairly rewarded - receiving pay that meets at least the Real Living Wage standard. This is separate from the statutory National Minimum Wage.
  • Heard, represented, and involved in decisions - actively being sought out for their views, with those views valued and taken seriously.
  • Secure and confident in their role - offered security in both hours and earnings, along with benefits such as sick pay and pensions.
  • Encouraged to development - able to progress in an environment that nurtures skills, learning, and career advancement.
  • Part of a healthy, inclusive culture - benefiting from positive workplace relationships and flexible working arrangements that accommodate family life and caring responsibilities.

Practical steps to implement Fair Work

  • Pay the Real Living Wage

    Ensure all workers are paid at least the Real Living Wage, reflecting the true cost of living.

  • Offer secure employment

    Aim for routine working hours and earnings. Minimise the use of zero-hour contracts unless requested by employees.

  • Provide flexible working

    Accommodate responsibilities such as childcare and caring commitments. Consider part-time roles, job shares, and flexible start and finish times.

  • Include sick pay and pension schemes

    Reassure employees by creating a safety net which includes sick pay entitlements and helping them save for retirement.

  • Create a positive and supportive environment

    Promote open communication, respect, and collaboration. Ensure managers encourage employee feedback and act on it.

  • Give workers representation

    Regularly seek out employees’ opinions through surveys, team meetings, or working groups, and involve them in decision-making.

Fair Work Employer Support Tool

Scottish Enterprise, in conjunction with the Scottish Government, Fair Work Convention and other partners, has developed a tool to help you understand and fully embed the dimensions of Fair Work.

Fair Work Employer Support Tool

Related Pages

Start your business

Essential tools, legal guidance and staff support to launch successfully.

Legislation

Find the latest legislation advice. From short-term lets to visitor levy and Fair Work to package travel regulations.

Fair Work Convention

Learn how Fair Work can support your organisation at the Fair Work Convention website.

Read the Fair Work in the Hospitality Industry Report 2024

Fair work in the Hospitality Industry Report 2024

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