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Fair Work First Evaluation – Third Sector Input Vital

8th January 2026

GCVS is encouraging third sector organisations across Glasgow and beyond to take part in the Scottish Government’s new evaluation of Fair Work First. This is a national policy designed to drive fair, safe and high‑quality working practices across Scotland.

The evaluation, conducted independently by Pye Tait Consulting, seeks to understand how Fair Work First is being implemented by employers who receive public sector contracts or grants, and how the policy is shaping working conditions nationwide. At GCVS, we are committed to championing fair work principles, and we want to ensure the third sector’s voice is fully represented in this review.

Why Your Participation Matters

Fair Work First sets out key expectations for organisations delivering publicly funded services or activities. These include:

Paying staff at least the real Living Wage
Providing appropriate and effective channels for workers’ voice
Advancing equality and creating workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and respected

For many third sector organisations, Fair Work First aligns closely with long‑held values around the dignity of work and sustainable employment. This evaluation is an opportunity to highlight what is working well, what challenges persist, and what support or policy changes could strengthen fair work across charities, social enterprises, and community organisations.

Two Surveys Now Open

The Scottish Government invites participation from both employers and individual workers within organisations that have received public sector contracts or grants.

1. Employer Survey

This survey should be completed by a senior representative (e.g., CEO or senior manager).

🕑 Takes around 20 minutes
🔗 Employer survey link: https://www.pyetait.com/fwf-employers
📅 Open until 23 January 2026
Responses go directly to Pye Tait Consulting and will be treated confidentially.

2. Workers’ Survey

Organisations are also asked to share the workers’ survey with their staff.

🔗 Workers survey link: https://www.pyetait.com/fwf-workers
🔒 Anonymous and confidential
🎁 Includes a prize draw for three £100 Love Scotland vouchers

Hearing directly from employees, including third sector staff, will help the Scottish Government build a fuller picture of how Fair Work First is influencing workplace experience, wellbeing, and job quality.

Your Contribution Helps Shape the Future of Fair Work

GCVS strongly encourages eligible third sector employers to participate and to share the workers’ survey widely with staff. Your insight is essential to understanding the reality of Fair Work First in practice. Taking part also helps to ensure future policy continues to support a fair, equitable and sustainable third sector workforce.

Further resources are available through the Fair Work First Evaluation Online Hub. Third sector organisations can also contact the GCVS Policy & Engagement Team at policy.engagement@gcvs.org.uk for support or queries.