Construction firm Cruden Group knows that a highly skilled and motivated workforce can only be good for the future of the company. A positive score of 78% shows work is an important part of employees' life, and the training given to the workforce is of great personal benefit to them (69%). The Cheshire-based organisation was founded in 1963 and 369 employees work across the five specialist companies that make up the group. A 77% score, putting the group among the top third of companies, shows that employees love working at Cruden, which aspires to be the northwest's construction group of choice. An in-house talent development programme offers employees a range of training opportunities and the group works with local colleges to provide apprenticeships, which can lead to professional qualifications and even a career with Cruden. People believe the company is run on strong principles (73%). Those with their sights on senior positions are encouraged to embark on degree or diploma qualifications to gain a deeper knowledge of their professional field, with the organisation paying the costs of the course. The firm tries to promote from within. Twenty-four of the 29 senior managers were internal appointments. Employees feel they can make a difference in the organisation (77%). A score of 76%, ranking Cruden Group 16th, shows that staff aren't bored with the work they do. People are also trained in core skills including customer care, health and safety, respect for people, and equality and diversity. A course on stress awareness gives staff practical tips on how to recognise and deal with pressures. This raised awareness is working—employees say they haven't suffered from stress-related symptoms in the last year because of work (78%) and don't find their work deadlines unrealistic (68%). People feel happy with the balance between their work and home life, with a 72% score ranking the company 14th. They don't feel work interferes with their responsibilities at home (73%, another top 15 score) and don't think they are spending too much time working (61%). The sports and social club offers plenty of opportunities to relax. There are subsidised theatre and concert tickets and more adventurous pursuits such as bungee jumping and white water rafting. The company has also negotiated discounts on a variety of goods for staff. Senior employees are entitled to free private healthcare for themselves, their spouse and dependents, and everyone is given life assurance. Childcare vouchers are available, and a pension scheme sees the group boost the employee contribution of 2% by 8% more.
