What is good work and what makes good work
Research has shown that good work improves health and wellbeing, and has benefits for employees and employers.
Improving employee health and wellbeing can improve productivity, as well as help to reduce sickness absence and reduce workplace injuries and the associated costs of both.
Good work offers job security, provides a decent income, widens social networks and gives people a purpose. This contributes to improving physical and mental wellbeing. The health benefits of good work extend beyond working-age adults to their children, wider social network and communities.
Scottish Government’s tacking child poverty delivery plan 2018 – 2022 states “fair work is central to improving the lives of all families in Scotland”.
What makes good work?
These characteristics reflect good work:
- job security
- pay is reflective of the role and its value, and is a balance between effort and reward
- work that prevents harm, ensuring a safe and healthy workplace
- physical work environment is safe, encourages productivity and prevents isolation
- design of the job allows an element of autonomy and control
- promotes good mental health and reduces stress
- balance between demand and control
- balances power between workers and employer
- encourages and supports good health, including a work life balance and appropriate career progression
To find out more about what makes work good or bad for health and wellbeing and the features above, go to NHS Health Scotland’s publication, Good work for all.