Worsley-based family business scoops top prize at employment standards awards evening

A Worsley-based family business has scooped a top award for providing excellent standards of employment.

Anchor Removals, ran by Chris Smallwood, won The Mayor’s Employer of the Year at the second annual Greater Manchester Good Employment Awards.

The award were held last night (Thursday 27 April) at Oxford Road’s Whitworth Hall and attended by business leaders from around Greater Manchester, local council leaders and the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.

The family business, which was established in 1992, was congratulated for their commitment to equality, fair pay, and giving employees a say in how their workplaces are run.

Chris Smallwood, owner and managing director of Anchor Removals, said: “I look around and see the amazing room and the size of some of those companies, the resources they have, I am in awe of their view on good employment. 

“To win this award is just incredible, I’ve got no words, it means so much to me. We didn’t enter this award, it was awarded to us because somebody has seen what we were doing and that means we are changing people lives. That’s what really matters to us.

“I know it sounds a little bit disingenuous, but it’s true, we really care about our employees. We care about making people’s lives better and that’s what we are all about. So, we’re thrilled and honoured.”

Anchors Removals were one of eight businesses to be awarded during the evening, with Best for Employee Engagement going to Howorth Air Technology.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “It’s great to see the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter hold the second annual Good Employment Awards. These awards offer an opportunity to celebrate the efforts of employers who prioritise their people and who are leading the movement for good employment across the city-region.

“By supporting the Good Employment Charter, employers play a vital role in building a strong and resilient economy that works for everyone in Greater Manchester. Well done to all the winners – we hope your achievements inspire more employers to follow suit.”