Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Practices: Bollywood dancing lessons and drumming are among the activities employees of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea have enjoyed during its Adult Learners' Week. As part of the council's commitment to making learning and development integral to work, staff are encouraged to try something different during the annual event. Personal and professional skills are developed in the training centre and through secondments. Rated “excellent” as a local authority, Kensington and Chelsea holds full staff surveys every two years as well as an annual Excellent in Action staff awards. Employees and members of the public can nominate individuals or teams for the prize. Certificates are awarded to nominees, a glass bowl to the winner. Pay and benefits: On average, the council retains its staff for seven years. Of the 2,421 full-time staff, more are in the £25,000 to £35,000 wage bracket than in any other, around 880. There are almost a third more women working at the council than men. They receive maternity pay for six weeks on full pay, 20 weeks at half pay and 13 weeks on standard maternity pay. Benefits include free private healthcare for employees, spouses and dependents, free swimming and discounted prices on council sports facilities. Staff receive a £50 voucher for a year's full attendance. For more information on 'The Times Best Councils to Work For 2007' list please visit http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/career_and_jobs/specials/best_councils/