Shrewsbury Colleges Group (SCG) is passionate about offering an outstanding student experience but also to be an outstanding employer to its 500+ employees. SCG has an on-site HR department consisting of nine trained practitioners providing support to managers and staff. One of the roles within HR is dedicated to, and responsible for, employee wellbeing.
SCG has held regular staff Wellbeing Days since 2012, dedicated to the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of staff. These involve organisations such as chiropractors, nutritionists etc. coming along to talk to staff about their health as well as people from our pension’s provider and counselling team. Staff can access sessions such as relaxation at your desk, managing workplace stress and meditation techniques. In 2021 trainers delivered workshops including Practicing Mindfulness and Managing Stress. Staff can receive discounted onsite gym membership and discounted on-site treatments including massage, aromatherapy, and reflexology.
SCG has supported the time required for the Group Vice Principal for HR and Professional Development, Donna Lucas, to be part of the Association of College’s National steering committee called the ‘Mental Health Policy Group’ Donna is one of the two college representatives within the group, working with the Charlie Waller Trust on the national approach to workplace mental health. SCG is committed to ensuring Mental Health support is available to its employees. Many employees are trained as champions and training continues. SCG has a range of policies supporting a healthy work life balance, such as the Flexible Working/Sabbatical Policy as well as those policies written to protect employees such as Bullying and Harassment policies.
SCG has a LET’s (Learning Enhancement Team) programme providing opportunities for learning and self-development for employees including, coaching & mentoring. The College has a team of coaches available to support the workforce. SCG promotes initiatives such as Mental Health Awareness Week. Green pin badges are available to purchase on site.
SCG promotes the work of Education Support and offers a Counselling service to its employees, it also works with two occupational health services, who alongside Access to Work and HR can support keeping employees in work, making adjustments or the return to work process.
SCG promotes wellbeing in many ways, including onsite staff spin classes and yoga. We have a College walking group with its own Facebook page ‘SCG Ramblers’. SCG organises family days out. We also hold a ‘visit Santa’ event each year for the children of our employees. During the Coronavirus pandemic we have held remote online quiz’s and have filmed short videos for the children of employees from Santa from the North Pole.
SCG works hard at supporting positive mental health within the workforce and is pleased to be part of this Employer Pledge and the Shropshire Chamber Mental Health Pledge to further demonstrate our commitment. |
