New data shows major steps being taken toward South Kesteven District Council’s ambition to be an outstanding employer, recording significant progress.
A report presented to its Employment Committee today (29 June), included a new “HR Dashboard” offering an insight into how staff there feel about working at SKDC.
It records engagement levels, access to learning and development opportunities, recruitment, reward and recognition and wellbeing – as well as key metrics on equality, diversity and inclusion from the past year.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Richard Cleaver said: “The progress the Council has made in its personnel, employment and wellbeing function over the past year underscores our commitment to cultivating a thriving workforce that feels satisfied, supported and proud to work here.
“Data such as this plays a valuable role in helping us to shape, deliver and improve Council services and it is equally important that, together with feedback from our colleagues, we can develop internal policies and procedures that support the growth and wellbeing of staff.”
Engagement among employees enjoyed a significant boost compared to 2021. The report highlighted regular opportunities to feedback, a comprehensive wellbeing action plan and additional staff social activities as contributing to the improvement.
A new Recognition Strategy also led to improved wellbeing with reward and recognition initiatives: since launching in September 2022, more than 500 nominations have been made for a ‘#TeamSK Thank You’ as staff showed appreciation for each other’s work.
Cllr Rhea Rayside, Cabinet Member for People and Communities, said: “The Council takes the mental and physical wellbeing of staff very seriously and hosts regular events such as health check sessions, walks, webinars and flexible working to support people through their career.
“We provide an online and telephone Employee Assistance Programme, which offers support for a range of life issues, and a trained team of staff mental health first-aiders is always on hand in the workplace.
“We believe a data-driven approach is the most useful way to help us recognise where more can be done and to guide improvements at work towards our shared ambitions. The Council remains dedicated to continuous improvement and this data demonstrates its progress.”
The report also highlighted continued investment into professional growth and development, with over 500 places filled in learning and training sessions in the past year.
With a commitment to nurturing talent, SKDC’s successful apprenticeship programme has provided 23 colleagues with a recognised and respected qualification, valuable work experience and transferable skills.
The Council was named Apprenticeship Employer of The Year at the recent Grantham College Awards for its efforts in providing apprenticeship opportunities in a wide range of areas including LGV driving, plumbing, business administration, environmental health and planning.
SKDC has enjoyed sustained improvement in recent years, having been recognised in the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2023, shortlisted as one of the Most Improved Councils.
More information about how people can join SKDC on its journey to create thriving communities is available at www.southkesteven.gov.uk/jobs
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