The University of Salford launches ‘Better Working Lives’ research cluster

The University of Salford has launched its ‘Better Working Lives’ research cluster aimed at improving working lives and workplace culture across the UK. 

The cluster brings together human resources (HR) and employment law specialists from the university and industry, including HR consultancy Peninsula. 

The team will examine how ongoing changes in the workplace are affecting workers and businesses.

Dr Jonathan Lord, senior lecturer in human resources management and employment law and co-lead of the cluster, said: “As 2025 is already shaping up to be a pivotal year for workplace culture, with a host of new employment laws being introduced by the UK Government, it is essential that businesses are making the necessary changes to protect the productivity of their teams, while supporting the wellbeing of their workforce.

“Determining the impact of real-time changes, plus shifting cultural and technological factors through effective research will ensure a fairer, inclusive and more prosperous working environment for all.”

Research from Ford found 77% of employees put a balanced personal life above career advancement. 

More than half said they would accept a 20% pay cut to improve their quality of life, showing changing attitudes to work.

The cluster’s main goal is to build an understanding of how job security, flexibility, employee voice, decent pay and good management can deliver higher productivity.