The council, through North Lanarkshire’s Working, is looking to engage with all types and sizes of organisations across North Lanarkshire to develop the economy.

Adele Muir, Employability Development Co-ordinator with North Lanarkshire Council, said: “The NL employer charter officially recognises businesses with high standards of excellence.

“It represents a clear commitment by employers to generating employment and training opportunities as well as operating fair work practices, that will help to drive growth and create a sustainable, vibrant local economy right here in North Lanarkshire.

Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, added: “Prior to the pandemic, North Lanarkshire had one of the fastest growing economies in Scotland. Despite the challenges faced by the pandemic, many employers have set up or moved to North Lanarkshire, drawn by our location, workforce benefits and investment opportunities.

“The employer charter consolidates our position as a leading place to invest and indeed helps to strengthen the offer for both businesses and the workforce.”

Employers achieving the highest level of accreditation would be seen as having a strategic level of engagement with high participation and contribution to the labour market, possibly as part of one of our academy programmes.

Bellshill-based ZL Group, which specialises in international freight, warehousing and distribution, powered access, lifting equipment, scaffolding and training, have received their Silver Award.

A spokesperson for the company said: “We are committed to the highest standards of employment, and we’re delighted to receive this award, which reflects our ambitions.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about the charter should contact North Lanarkshire’s Working on: 0800 073 0226, email: northlanarkshiresworking@northlan.gov.uk