I am happy with the balance between my work and home life
The Health at Heart group in the Council works hard to provide a balanced programme for health and wellbeing. As representatives within their various teams they have been able to gain first-hand information as to the needs of staff. The group has promoted events such as massages, walks, flu-jabs, dancing sessions and fruit days. Flexible working has also been a strong factor in enhancing the wellbeing of employees. The Flexible working Policy enables a variety of different working patterns to be used, including working from home and hot desking, working a nine-day fortnight and agreeing part time hours when returning from maternity or sickness. In 2015, the Council achieved the Investors in People Health and Wellbeing Award. As part of their management responsibility, Managers also keep employees up to date regarding changes, expectations and their own performance and this not only keeps them on track but also reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. Employees are also encouraged to take breaks to relax, re-group and disengage from technology and general work related interactions.