Working for Runnymede Borough Council

Runnymede Borough Council (The Council) recognises the importance of promoting and protecting employee wellbeing.

Cycle to Work Scheme

The Cycle to work scheme is a salary sacrifice initiative which encourages alternative commute/travel to improve health and fitness and reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. The initiative also allows employees to make tax and national insurance savings on the cost of a new bike and safety accessories.

Corporate eye care voucher scheme

Employees who regularly use a computer at work are entitled to a free eye test every two years. They are provided with a voucher which can be used against the cost of glasses if they are need solely for using a computer.

Vaccinations

The Council provides free flu vaccinations on an annual basis for all front-line employees (for those who do not receive a free vaccination with the NHS). Employees are also encouraged to have Covid vaccinations to reduce the impact of Covid on themselves and their colleagues.

7 Health checks for over 45’s

The Council would like to introduce annual heath checks for this group in the future. It is hoped that these checks will review weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, lifestyle review, resting heart rate, personalised health advice.

Agile working

The Council updated the Agile Working Policy in early 2023. This allows those whose roles have been determined as agile the opportunity to work from home up to twice a week (three times a week where certain criteria are met, and the arrangement agreed by the Corporate Head). Benefits resulting from adopting an agile working approach have included improved job satisfaction and morale, reduced absenteeism due to sickness, an improved work/life balance, reduced time spent commuting. The Council’s intention is that with an added degree of flexibility, employees will be better equipped to respond to and manage the demands of everyday working life alongside any temporary additional demands they may face due to external factors.

Health insurance

After one year’s employment with the Council, employees can receive a subsidy towards the cost of either a UK Healthcare cash plan or dental plan.

Health promotion initiatives

The Council developed and run a range of health promotion initiatives designed to raise awareness of health and lifestyle issues affecting physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Mental health and wellbeing

• Mental Health First Aiders
• Free counselling sessions
• Provision of a reflection room for meditation, prayer and/or reflection
• Regular awareness days and signposting of useful resources
• Bullying and harassment policy

Physical health and wellbeing

• Exercises and comfort for desk workers
• Menopause policy
• Access to workplace massage
• Provision of free eye tests vouchers
• Free health and wellbeing apps
• Offering of cycling to work scheme and associated discounts