Wellbeing is the focus of the revamped staff benefits package at the Guild of Students, the union that looks after 38,000 people taking courses at the University of Birmingham. The offering includes hybrid working, a generous holiday allowance, sick pay from the moment employment starts and a reward and recognition scheme.

The guild believes that providing staff with the opportunity to relax and have fun is important. The recently formed wellbeing group organises yoga sessions, monthly coffee mornings and staff walks. Social events also take place during the summer and winter holidays.

An employee assistance programme is there to support the team of 70 staff who run the not-for-profit organisation with the help of more than 200 student part-timers and 2,500 volunteers. As well as mental health training, the guild also provides sessions on workplace motivation, resilience and building positivity in the organisation.

The guild has an inclusive culture that recognises and celebrates success. It aims to be a workplace where everyone can learn, achieve and thrive. Team members are supported to think creatively, remove obstacles and see a broader range of options. The equality, diversity and inclusivity committee, which is made up of staff and trustees, works to remove barriers to participation and success for underrepresented groups in the guild.

The guild's role is to support students during their time at the university, by providing advice and helping everyone to develop skills outside study, meet new people and have a great time.