The Good Business Charter is the UK’s responsible business benchmark. Founded by Julian Richer and developed with the CBI, TUC and FSB, it brings together the interests of people, business and society to define what a truly good business looks like.
It sets a high bar. Accredited organisations must meet all ten components — from paying the real Living Wage and supporting employee voice, to ethical sourcing, environmental responsibility and paying fair tax. These are what matter most to people, as well as the foundation for businesses to build loyalty, resilience and lasting success.
By meeting all ten commitments, GBC-accredited organisations proudly demonstrate that responsible business matters — and that they are helping to build a fairer, more sustainable society for all.
This means that accredited organisations…
Pay all directly-employed staff the real Living Wage, and if they regularly work with contractors, they’ll have a clear plan to pay them the same — based on rates set by the Living Wage Foundation.
Use zero-hours contracts fairly. Giving people advance notice of shifts and look at ways to offer guaranteed hours so staff can better plan their lives.
Support employee wellbeing with clear, fair policies — and don’t punish people unfairly for being off sick for genuine reasons.
Make sure employees have a voice in the business, either through worker representatives or by including them in key decision-making.
Track and review data on equality, diversity and inclusion to identify where improvements are needed and take action to reduce discrimination or disadvantage.
Have an environmental policy that shows they’re committed to reducing your environmental impact and improving their sustainability.
Be open and honest about how much tax they pay. They don’t take part in tax avoidance schemes, and have a transparent relationship with HMRC.
Clearly state their commitment to customers on their website, regularly collect their feedback, and share the results with its leadership team.
Ensure your suppliers treat their workers fairly by following recognised ethical standards and regularly checking their practices.
Pay at least 95% of their suppliers on time — and aim to pay all of them within 30 days unless a different timeline is agreed by both sides.
Do you have a positive story to share about an accredited organisation? We’d love to hear it! Please email communications@goodbusinesscharter.com
If you have a concern about one of our accredited organisations, please visit our Whistleblowing page and contact the team via the form.
Find out more
If you’d like to learn more about the Good Business Charter, our 10 components and our accredited organisations, please visit our main website.
Together, we can celebrate and support businesses that are doing the right thing — not just for profits, but for people and the planet.