Giving Something Back - The extent to which employees feel their organisation has a positive impact on society
Giving Something Back focuses on the organisation’s social responsibilities. If key factors such as ‘Leadership’ and ‘My Manager’ are performing well, it can influence the improvement of all the other factors, boosting your overall engagement.
The organisation has 17 trained Mental Health First Aiders across the business and its Employee Assistance Programme gives staff multiple avenues to discuss their mental health in an open and confidential manner. The HR Team also run Mental Health in the Workplace sessions for Managers, which are compulsory for them to attend.
AJ Bell publish a regular series of interviews with its CEO and other members of the Executive Committee to its staff intranet. The videos cover business and performance updates, as well as personal reflections, and support the organisation’s work on an open and accountable culture. They also ensure staff receive a consistent message from leaders.
In February, the organisation launched its new charitable initiative – the AJ Bell Futures Foundation – initially committing to contribute 0.5% of its profits before tax to the Foundation each year – to establish deep-rooted, long-term partnerships whilst building futures in its communities. To date, it has donated £100,000 to each of its charity partners.
Blackstone employees are encouraged to start the week on a high with 'Blackstone TV' – a global call in which the leadership team shares valuable insights and updates to connect, motivate and inspire. The team also regularly posts videos, podcasts and newsletters and visits regional offices to host town hall meetings and invite questions.
All Blackstone staff are encouraged to hone their leadership skills. The firm doesn't view them as specific to certain job positions; it wants all employees to be able to convince others of their ideas and make them happen together. All staff are evaluated on their leadership and managerial qualities during the annual 360 review process.
Volunteering is big at Blackstone. It includes mentoring and career guidance for at-risk young people, renovating buildings for those in need and volunteering at food redistribution centres. During 2022, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation donated £336,000 to UK charity partners. Its London employees raised a further £228,500 through their own initiatives.
In addition to pay rewards, Christies Care has a quarterly, "extra mile" award for which staff nominate colleagues who they think have gone over and above in their roles. It also has annual awards that are linked to the organisation's values, when staff achievements are celebrated.
Managers are supported by senior managers through monthly one-to-one sessions, yearly appraisals and personal-development plans. Training and upskilling is tailored to the individual, and takes the form of in-house teaching and the use of external coaches.
Braving the Shave, a danceathon and the Mighty Hike for Macmillan Cancer Support are among the fundraising activities staff have taken part in to raise money for charity, as well as shoebox filling for a homeless shelter. During mental health awareness week cash was raised for The Befriending Scheme, which supports vulnerable young people.
With medical and dental insurance, a healthcare cash plan, 24/7 access to a GP, sports clubs and fitness classes, staff are supported to stay well. They can also access a digital health support app to track their health, get personalised insights and recommendations and engage with others facing challenges like menopause, cancer or fertility issues.
Employees are recognised for the unique skills they bring. The firm focuses on helping them develop in areas they're good at and offering roles that play to their strengths and unlock their potential. Cooper Parry's L&D offer isn't just about sending people on courses but broader personal development, such as through board breaking and firewalking.
Being B Corp Certified cements the firm's commitment to the environment and society. It promises to volunteer 365 days a year, including a 'Community Day' where all offices close. Staff can help wherever they like or through the 'On Hand' partnership supporting local schools, hospices, homeless shelters, food banks, and the elderly.
The company ensures its staff have the training to offer its clients the right advice and solutions, providing empathy and understanding. It employs specialist staff to deal with each stage of the customer journey. And employees undertake vulnerable customer training and training that ensures they embody the company's core values.
The company has an interactive Managing People training course, with group exercises and tests to check learning. It covers areas such as recruitment and selection, performance management, employment law and conducting one-to-ones. The Wellness at Work programme also supports managers in areas such a stress management and handling difficult discussions.
From Kiltwalks to bake sales, staff can always get involved in activities to benefit local and national causes. The company has also supported Motherwell's mental health programme and helped Celtic and Rangers support vulnerable fans. Employees have the option of payroll giving, and the company matches any funds raised for its chosen charity.
