HL Display – flexible working
| Company name | HL Display |
|---|---|
| Sector | Retail manufacturer |
| Number of employees | 34 |
| Type of workforce | Warehouse and office workers |
What issue was the organisation facing?
HL Display’s main aim in terms of the health and well-being of its employees was to create a positive working environment that would support a healthy work-life balance and support the overall health of its workforce. It also wanted to demonstrate clearly to its employees that they were seen as a valued asset to the company.
Within the company, employees undertake a variety of tasks, so any health and well-being policies had to address the range of issues they may face. For example those working at a computer for the majority of their working day will have different requirements to those working in the warehouse lifting and handling products.
As some of the company’s workforce are relatively young, HL Display had periodically experienced a high level of staff turnover – those within the younger age groups often move on from jobs more frequently as they believe this builds up their skills and experience quicker. HL Display wanted to address this problem by giving its staff a stronger reason to stay, therefore creating a more stable working environment and a more settled and productive workforce.
What action did the organisation take?
The company has introduced an online time management system to support flexible working. Using the system employees can see exactly how much time they are owed in lieu and can submit requests for time off (for doctor’s appointments etc.) quickly and easily.
To enhance the work-life balance, HL Display has introduced a scheme whereby employees can purchase additional holidays. The standard holiday entitlement is 28 days, with this increasing by a further three days after five years with the company. If they wish, they can purchase up to 10 additional days off during a 12-month period.
What has been the impact of implementing health interventions?
The results of the Annual Employee Satisfaction Survey show each year that the overall objectives for the well-being policy are being achieved.
In the most recent survey, undertaken in December 2008, 100% of the workforce said they felt that HL Display is supportive of their career and that they understand their role within the business. Over 90% said they felt they were valued by HL Display as an employee.
In addition staff turnover levels have been reduced by 11%.
As well as staff turnover being reduced (from 51% in 2006 to 40% in 2008), the overall working environment at HL Display has improved.
As mentioned, 100% of employees have also stated (within the Annual Employee Satisfaction Survey) that they are satisfied working at HL Display. The company views this as a major achievement and the fact that people are happy working within the business has made for a very positive working environment and has resulted in enhanced productivity levels.
The initiatives implemented have also had a positive effect on recruitment. As current employees present HL Display in a favourable light to their peers, when positions arise within the business, HL Display has more applicants and therefore has a greater choice of candidates.