COMFORTABLE OFFICES, GOOD rewards and a healthy work-life balance are among the many reasons staff like working for Brabners Chaffe Street. Engagement levels are high at the law firm, despite a pay freeze and no bonus for two years, although it was paid in 2010. The 376 staff at offices in Preston, Manchester and Liverpool go out of their way to provide a good service, winning the company a top 25 positive score of 91% in our survey and they think it delivers the goods (85%). The legal firm ranks 29th in our Wellbeing category, proving that staff can have a challenging job without it affecting their health (79%) or their responsibilities at home (68%). Brabners has a "chill out" Friday once a month when holistic therapists come in to provide a range of treatments. Employees don't feel under so much pressure they can't concentrate (74%), have not had stress-related symptoms in the past 12 months because of work (76%) and say deadlines are realistic (70%). With 40% of staff earning between £15,000 and £25,000 and the average salary of a lawyer amounting to £60,000, staff feel they are paid fairly relative to people in similar jobs in other companies (62%) and compared to others within the organisation (59%). Benefits include a wellness programme, life insurance, discounted services, free eye tests and a £50 contribution towards spectacles, corporate gym membership and a contributory pension scheme. Brabners spent £65,000 on social events last year. Work is an important part of employees' lives (79%). They feel the organisation is making the most of their skills (60%, a top 25 score), are not bored (72%) and say people don't use intimidation to get what they want (71%). Employees mentor school children to develop their reading skills and the firm also has a green and carbon reduction team. Employees think the company is putting enough back into the community and doing its bit to protect the environment (67% and 74%). brabnerschaffestreet.com
