You might know Manchester Central for its grand, vaulted arches and that unmistakable station clock – a true landmark in the heart of the city. It’s a place that buzzes with life, drawing in over half a million visitors annually and injecting a significant £150 million into the local economy each year. But beyond the impressive scale and the sheer variety of events it hosts, there’s a deeper story unfolding within its walls, one that’s all about the people who make it all happen.
In today’s world, where so many are re-evaluating what they want from their work lives, the focus on fair treatment and genuine value for employees has never been more critical. Manchester Central has been actively embracing this shift, particularly through its commitment to becoming a Real Living Wage accredited employer. It’s not just a tick-box exercise; it’s a fundamental part of their philosophy.
Shaun Hinds, the Chief Executive, puts it plainly: "Our business is a people business; we exist because we bring people together." He emphasizes that the experience visitors have is directly tied to the interactions they have with every single team member, from those greeting you at the door to the vital backroom staff. For everyone to feel like they're truly part of the Manchester Central 'machine,' their basic employment conditions need to be solid. The Real Living Wage provides that accredited, understood foundation.
This journey towards accreditation wasn't an overnight one. It’s been a process that’s taken a couple of years, partly due to the contractual structures involved. The initial step was ensuring all direct employees were paid at least the Real Living Wage. The subsequent, and perhaps more complex, phase involved working with partner organisations that deliver services for Manchester Central. By ensuring that re-contracted services include the Real Living Wage as a requirement, they’ve extended this commitment across the entire operational chain.
What does this mean in practice? It means that whether you’re a full-time employee, on a fixed contract, or brought in for those larger, more dynamic events, you’re being fairly compensated. Even those on more flexible arrangements benefit, making Manchester Central a more attractive prospect for a wider pool of talent. In a time when everyone is feeling the pinch of rising costs, being an employer on the 'right side' of this initiative feels not just right, but essential.
The benefits, as Hinds points out, are tangible. Coming out of the turbulence of recent years, people are more confident in articulating their needs and expectations from employers. Being a proud Real Living Wage employer isn't just about doing the right thing; it’s a strategic advantage. In the age of the internet, candidates can easily compare job opportunities. Displaying Real Living Wage accreditation immediately sets Manchester Central apart, getting them past that crucial first hurdle and eliminating many potential competitors before they even get a chance to showcase the other appealing aspects of working there.
Ultimately, it boils down to attracting and retaining staff. When you can remove those common 'niggles' – like inadequate pay – you become a more appealing choice. It fosters a sense of pride and belonging within the team, making them feel good about where they work. For other employers in the field, the message is clear: the ability to attract the workforce needed to deliver services is no longer a given. Those who embrace the Real Living Wage are already reaping the rewards, gaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving employment landscape.
Manchester Central is proving that a commitment to its people, through fair wages and a supportive environment, is not just good for the staff, but good for the business and the wider community it serves.
