Agenda item

By means of a presentation, the Panel will receive an update on the Workforce Strategy.

By means of a presentation (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) Kiran Hans, HR Coordinator – Project Delivery, provided the Committee with an update on the Workforce Strategy. Reference was made to examples of training and development activities, such as the Management and Leadership programme.

Managers had been divided into different cohorts so they could learn from each other. The training included providing further insight into neurodiversity, recruitment and onboarding, Customer Excellence and the 1-2-1 form- My Conversation. The Wellbeing module was also being introduced to this training.

Attention was drawn to the Active Lifestyles Team and the sessions on Escape Pain Management they provided to staff, particularly around knee, back, neck and shoulder pain. Health kiosks were located in Pathfinder House and Eastfield House as part of the Know Your Numbers programme which allowed staff to measure their blood pressure. 

Councillor Jordan praised the efforts of the Team and shared the positive feedback she received from an Officer who was appreciative of all the incentives and the information shared at the events. She made special note of the Succession Plan and was pleased that it was a clear and positive way forward.

Councillor Davenport-Ray asked if there were any plans to target the employees who had not entered into the pension scheme. The Panel heard that opting into the pension scheme was always promoted on the Road Shows and bringing in pension advisors was expected to increase the uptake. The Employee Representative Group (ERG) also encouraged their colleagues to opt in.

Councillor Cawley sought further insight into how International Men’s Day was being marked. It was confirmed that there would be a Panel event which would discuss wellbeing and challenges along with stalls where staff could receive further information.

After a question relating to the Staff Survey, it was confirmed that the analysis from this could be shared at the next meeting of the Committee.

Councillor Lowe enquired about employees’ views on returning to the office and if the increase in the days in correlated with the terms of the Workforce Strategy. It was noted that more staff were present in the office now than in the previous year.

Councillor Kadewere sought further information about the Succession Plan and about the Support Groups available to employees. Regarding the Succession plan, the Panel heard that a process and flowchart had been developed which would guide Managers in identifying critical roles within their Teams. It was then stated that the Support Groups were based on what the staff wanted and needed, such as a Menopause Group where information could be shared and accessed. There was mention of a potential Mental Health Support Group in the future.

The Panel also heard that someone from the Kidney Research UK had attended a Road Show at Pathfinder House to raise awareness and that there would be a talk on the 14th November for World Diabetes Day which was an issue raised by an Officer.

It was

RESOLVED

that the information presented be received and noted.