WHEN ALMOST ONE in three of your workforce has been in the job for more than 15 years, as an employer you must be doing something right. At Derbyshire County Council, the 13,000-plus employees have the option of staggered hours, home working, job sharing, term-time-only contracts, sabbaticals and reduced work time. Holidays start at 21 days per year rising to 30 days depending on length of service, and, in addition to public holidays, the workforce also has four extra concessionary days. Staff have access to independent counselling, legal and financial advisory services, free physiotherapy, childcare vouchers and healthy lifestyle promotions such as subsidised gym membership. Not surprisingly, the council achieves its best overall rank in the Wellbeing factor. Employees say that pressure of work doesn't affect their concentration (a 63% positive score) or their performance (61%). People don't feel work deadlines are unrealistic (56%) and they are happy with the balance between their work and home life (63%). At 65%, the council achieves the best result among big organisations for work not interfering with responsibilities at home. In the past year the council has introduced a consultative panel of about 400 employees to discuss organisational changes. Team briefings ensure essential information is cascaded down and give people the opportunity to put their views across. Staff say the council values new ideas from them (53%) and feel that everyone is treated fairly (54%, the second best score). Chief executive Nick Hodgson has a monthly column in the staff magazine and all leaders are encouraged to be approachable. Employees have confidence in the leadership skills of their senior managers (52%) and just one other institution scored better for people not using intimidation to get what they want (60%). www.derbyshire.gov.uk