The Good Business Charter Accreditation
We’ve received some exciting news in that we’ve been accredited by The Good Business Charter and this accreditation really highlights how much we value and incorporate ethical practices as much as possible.
If you’re unfamiliar with The Good Business Charter do take a look, it may be that there’s a lot you are already doing, and I’m sure there are areas where you (like us) can also improve.
Let’s have a look at the 10 components we’re committed to in conducting business in a responsible and ethical way.
“The Good Business Charter requires all employers to pay directly employed staff and regularly contracted staff the real living wage as set out by the Living Wage Foundation and for those with over 50 employees, commit to becoming an accredited Living Wage Employer within a mutually agreed time frame.”
We all have the right to earn a living wage. We are proud to employ interns and pay them at a rate above the living wage. Our associates and contractors are also paid a fair rate above the living wage – and in line with company profits – that way we all benefit.
“The Good Business Charter requires a fair approach to zero hours contracts, including fair shift scheduling and cancellation policy, and proper consideration given to contracts with guaranteed hours.”
We work with our fabulous associates at JMVA on a retained basis where possible, meaning the team has regular booked hours for each client they’re supporting. The team is asked regularly for availability updates and more hours are allocated where possible. Any ad-hoc support work that may be offered is entirely optional, meaning our associates have the right to accept or refuse unconditionally.
“The Good Business Charter requires clear, fair and transparent policies that support and encourage employee wellbeing and ban unreasonable penalties for legitimate sickness.”
Our policies are fair and transparent for all (associates, contractors, and employees alike). We offer an optional wellbeing/employee benefits scheme for employees and we regularly share information on wellbeing in the work-from-home world for our self-employed colleagues.
“The Good Business Charter requires all employers to engage with worker representatives and to ensure there is a voice that represents employees around the boardroom table.”
The team are invited to regular catch-up calls and team meetings which are a fantastic forum for talking through what’s happening for them (personally as well as with clients). It’s also an opportunity to celebrate wins and get to know each other better. Our amazing associates support one another and our founder, Joanne, is always available if/when the team needs her.
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to evidence how they monitor the diversity of their workforce and their commitment to close the gender, disability and ethnicity pay gaps.”
At JMVA, we don’t discriminate, and all are welcome. We ensure fair access to opportunities based on skill set, and take the specific needs of the individual into consideration when agreeing hours, deadlines, and any other requirements.
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to commit to an environmental policy to demonstrate they are committed to reducing their environmental impact and continually improving their environmental performance.”
We use local suppliers where possible, our team members are encouraged to implement environmentally friendly digital practices. Information is shared regularly on how to reduce our environmental impact as well as buying ethically sourced gifts and office supplies where possible.
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to commit to paying their taxes, not engage in tax avoidance and commit to be transparent in their relationship with HMRC.”
We pay our taxes in full and on time!
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to publish their commitment to their customers on their website. Businesses will be expected to gather and monitor customer feedback and report the results to their board.”
Our Terms and Conditions are available to access on our website. All associates and employees are issued with an onboarding guide when they join the team at JMVA which includes the expectations and commitments to our customers/clients. We want our clients to have the very best experience with us and so we regularly collect feedback and suggestions, as well as conduct case studies for a more in-depth view.
Feedback from clients is passed on where appropriate to the relevant associates – if adjustments are needed then we take the necessary action to ensure our clients and associates are both happy.
We are proud to use Starling Bank because we believe in their commitment to greener, more sustainable banking. As opposed to traditional banks, they are branchless and paperless, they make their cards from recycled plastic, and they have eco-friendly offices that run on renewable energy.
To further reduce our carbon footprint, our web servers are powered 100% by renewable energy generated by wind turbines.
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to commit to the standards set out in the Ethical Trading Initiative Base Code for sourcing through a process of continuous due diligence.”
JMVA is committed to exceeding the standards set out in the above. All members of the team whether employed or contracted have the right to opt in or out of what work is offered to them. Our contracts and agreements are transparent and easy to understand.
“The Good Business Charter requires businesses to sign the government’s Prompt Payment Code.”
We are signed up to the Prompt Payment Code and always pay invoices on or before the payment terms. We understand that for small businesses cash flow is extremely important and so all suppliers, employees, and associates are paid promptly.
We’re really proud to be accredited by The Good Business Charter as the values we hold and ethical practices we maintain are important to us.