17 June 2025

We’re delighted to have received advanced accreditation status for Shine, the new employer accreditation scheme backed by Mayor Kim McGuinness, helping businesses of all sizes create fairer, safer, and more fulfilling workplaces.

What is Shine?

Shine is more than a badge – it’s a movement for change. It supports employers to do right by their people through fair pay, secure work, inclusive practices, and opportunities to grow. From start-ups to multinationals, every organisation can play a part in raising employment standards and building a stronger region.

Through our membership levels and five beams of good practice, Shine helps you shine a light on what good work really looks like – and supports you to go even further.

Who are we?

Backed by Mayor Kim McGuinness and led by the North East Combined Authority, Shine champions responsible employment that puts people first.

The North East Combined Authority is democratically governed by the Mayor and the Cabinet and covers the seven local authority areas of County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland.