Blog

Learn about updates from across the Food Network for Ethical Trade’s membership in our blog. This blog covers a range of different work relating to human rights and ethical trade in the food sector

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Grievance mechanisms enable people encountering work-based problems to communicate issues and complaints with managers in order for them to be addressed, considered and resolved. In a recent FNET webinar on gender in international supply chains, FNET members heard about the need to ensure that these channels for communication between workers and management are specifically tailored to pick up issues that relate to gender inequality.  These could range from very serious violations such as harassment and gender-based violence, to other issues around breaks, toilet facilities and workplace safety.   The Oxfam Business Advisory Service has developed a grievance mechanism with a gender lens (originally for Reckitt) that highlights the importance of including women, men and gender-expansive individuals in the development of the policies and how they are being implemented, and the importance of training for managers specifically on gender-based grievances and how to interpret and support people when problems arise.
In FNET’s fortnightly call today, industry trade bodies, retailers, suppliers, growers, recruiters, and non-profits came together to update each other on the Seasonal Workers Scheme Taskforce to safeguard workers’ rights within the UK Seasonal Workers Scheme. The Taskforce is focused on implementing practical actions to improve the responsible recruitment and employment of migrant workers into UK farms, and to work with Government departments on the operation of the Scheme.
For those new to the Food Network for Ethical Trade (FNET) we are a supplier-led membership organisation working to bring about positive change in global food and horticultural supply chains working conditions by providing guidance, resources, training, and opportunities for collaboration. We currently have 66 members; food, beverage and horticulture suppliers, brands and retailers who are working to develop their collective capacity to make change in their supply chains.