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University College Gives Well-being a Boost
The Leeds-based healthplan provider chose to reward the higher education institution following its dedicated approach to encouraging staff to remain healthy and providing them with a wealth of benefits.
Over the past few months, in-line with its evolving Reward and Recognition Strategy, York St John University College has launched a number of initiatives for its employees including a healthplan from LHF. The policy enables staff to budget for everyday healthcare costs by offering money towards dental care, optical, physiotherapy, health screening and complementary therapies.
Deputy director of human resources, Emma Wilkins was delighted to receive the award alongside UNISON representative Gareth Jenkins.
She comments: Education is occasionally a high pressured environment and employee well-being is paramount for us. It's through vital support from the Higher Education Funding Council for England and its Rewarding and Developing Staff initiative, that we've been able to facilitate this fresh health strategy and improve the non-pay related benefits offered to staff.
We're thrilled to receive this award as it demonstrates our commitment to the on-going heath and well-being of our team of staff."
The LHF healthplan is one of a number of health initiatives that was introduced. A cycle purchase scheme is due to be launched shortly and with the support of the NHS North Yorkshire Stop Smoking Service the University College has provided financial and morale support to a group of staff committed to giving up smoking.
It also has its own gym facilities and runs regular fitness classes that staff can access at preferential rates.
The University College is looking forward to the outcomes of a research study being undertaken by two members of its academic staff that will assess the impact of working practices within the University College on the physical well-being of staff.
The University College's Trade Union representatives have praised the introduction of these benefits that are available to all levels of staff.
Gareth Jenkins, the College's local UNISON representative adds: We are very glad to see the college moving towards a more comprehensive rewards package for all staff. Elements such as the healthplan should provide a great deal of value to staff above and beyond their salary." Employees at the College can claim money towards a host of everyday healthcare treatments such as dental and optical, physiotherapy, health screening and a confidential 24 hour helpline, (all available to employees following one year's service at York St John). York St John University College is the latest in a long line of public sector organisations to introduce a healthplan from LHF.
Having experience with Leeds City Council, Leeds Metropolitan University and York Health Services NHS Trust, LHF Healthplan offers a range of healthplans to suit any employers' budget, whether public or private sector organisations. For further information on LHF Healthplan visit www.lhfhealthplan.co.uk or call 0800 591 993.