Our CBISS member, Dr Elena Papagiannaki, has made significant contributions to the 2024 Good Work Time Series report from the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW). This comprehensive study provides a detailed look at the quality of work across England, Scotland, and Wales, revealing substantial regional disparities and the profound impact of technological advancements on job quality.

What is Good Work?

Good work is more than just employment; it involves fair pay, reasonable working hours, job security, opportunities for personal growth, and a sense of community. The Good Work Time Series report tracks these elements across 203 local authorities in England, Scotland, and Wales from 2009 to 2023, highlighting the changes and trends over time.

Regional Disparities: A Closer Look

England

In England, the disparities in access to good work are stark. Regions like the South East and London lead with higher median pay and more professional job opportunities. However, areas such as the East Midlands and the North East face significant declines, with increasing job polarization and fewer high-quality job opportunities. This suggests that existing policies may not be effectively addressing the needs of all regions​.

Scotland

Scotland has taken a more balanced approach to job quality, managing to maintain a more equitable distribution of good work. Targeted policies focusing on inclusive growth and community wealth building have helped Scotland achieve better outcomes in job quality and regional equality compared to other parts of the UK​.

Wales

In Wales, the divide between urban and rural areas is particularly evident. While cities like Cardiff show better performance in job quality, rural regions struggle. The Welsh government has been proactive, implementing initiatives to improve job quality and reduce disparities, including investments in skills development and support for local businesses​.

The Role of Technology

The report highlights the significant impact of technological transformation on job quality. The Disruption Index, introduced alongside the Good Work Time Series, offers insights into how AI and automation are reshaping the job market. These technologies present opportunities for creating high-quality jobs but also pose risks of increasing inequalities if not managed properly​.

Food for Thought

As we reflect on the findings of this report, it’s crucial to consider what good work means to us personally and within our communities. Are we experiencing fair pay, reasonable working hours, and opportunities for growth? How do technological advancements in our workplaces impact the quality of our jobs?

Moreover, the regional disparities highlighted in this report prompt us to think about the effectiveness of local and national policies. Are they truly addressing the needs of all regions? What more can be done to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to good work?

By contemplating these questions, we can better understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. Let’s use this knowledge to advocate for policies and practices that promote equitable and high-quality job opportunities for all.

For a deeper dive into the report and its findings, you can access the full document here.