Practices: The council’s chief executive has established manager networks — first-line managers, middle managers and senior managers who meet separately every quarter year. These meetings enable staff to discuss issues and share ideas. They are led by the chief executive who gives an update of events and performance.

The council is committed to training employees, to ensure the continuous improvement in service quality. It seeks to ensure that all employees develop the knowledge and competence to do their jobs effectively.

Training policies and practices support the emergence of a more flexible and adaptable workforce, to enhance the capacity to respond to change.

Pay and benefits: All employees are eligible to apply for the flexible working options (including job sharing, reduced and compressed hours, home working, school hours and term time contracts and flexi time). Career breaks are also available.

Benefits include subsidised sports facilities, childcare vouchers, free parking and subsidised lunches. The council offers additional voluntary contribution pension schemes so employees can enhance their retirement benefits. St Helens runs sessions on midlife and pre-retirement planning.

www.sthelens.gov.uk

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