Responsible sourcing platform Sedex has launched a direct worker reporting programme to help businesses hear directly from workers in their supply chains – allowing them to respond and improve working conditions during the Covid-19 disruption.

Sedex is partnering with direct worker reporting provider &Wider on the project. The programme will use survey tools and mobile voice technology to enable feedback directly from workers throughout the supply chain, which aims to simplify the sharing and collection of direct feedback on workplace conditions.

The companies say gaining regular insights directly and anonymously from workers is “crucial” yet communicating directly with workers at scale can be “challenging.”

“Hearing straight from workers will allow our members to gain direct insights into workers’ experiences and priorities, especially at a time where audits are significantly disrupted,” says Magali Martowicz, Sedex director of responsible sourcing. “We have developed tailored solutions that members can use stand-alone or to complement other Sedex assessments. The insights collected by &Wider will enrich the Sedex data and provide insights into working conditions, livelihoods and wellbeing.”