Number of staff ... 457
Male/female ratio ... 44/56
Average age ... 44
Staff turnover ... 16%
Earning £35,000+ ... 8%
www.south-norfolk.gov.uk

Practices On South Norfolk District Council’s intranet there is a section called Top Stories where staff can share anecdotes and employees can be recognised for their achievements.

The staff run a sports and social club that raises money each year for a chosen local charity. This year the club voted to support the area’s First Responders team, whose members are available to attend emergencies until an ambulance reaches the scene. Some staff have chosen to become First Responders and are given time off if they need to attend emergency call-outs.

South Norfolk’s Learn as You Go programme is a series of 25 inter-active workshops that is available to everyone. Some of the topics covered include communication, time management, coaching and mentoring and planning and organising.

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BACKGROUND

• Best council rules

• Special award winners

Related Internet Links

• Best Councils 2008 table

Staff are also encouraged to participate in a learning hour that is held each Thursday from 8.30am to 9.30am. The topic changes every week and ranges from council-related issues to blood donation.

A learning suite is available to support IT training. IT trainers offer instruction in Microsoft products such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as the European Computer Driving Licence qualification.

The council also has a mentoring programme that enables potential supervisers to shadow those in management roles.

Programmes designed to help staff make the most of their health are delivered throughout the year. Examples include lifestyle management, developing resilience and increasing energy levels.

A reflexologist and masseuse visit each lunchtime offering subsidised back and shoulder massages, reflexology, Indian head massage and Hopi ear balancing treatments. Members of staff are able to take time away from their desks to enjoy the treatments and to relax.

Pay and benefits All types of flexible working are available to most employees and up to five weeks’ paid sabbatical leave is is an option. Flexible working is encouraged through the council’s Finding the Balance policy. The scheme is available to all employees where service needs permit and each case is considered on its merit. Flexible working would not be ruled out simply because, for example, the post includes supervisory responsibilities. Benefits include free sports facilities for some employees, low-interest car loans and the opportunity to buy and sell holiday.

Return to The Best Councils to Work For table

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