Lincoln businesses are going the extra mile for their staff and the local community under a ‘Social Responsibility Charter’ launched by the City of Lincoln Council.
First introduced last year, the charter requires employers to take part in ‘socially responsible activities’ like paying their staff the real Living Wage, fundraising for local charities, and being environmentally friendly.
The aim is to benefit employees and the city as a whole.
As part of their commitment, design and print agency Ruddocks has introduced a cycle to work scheme and now provides free fresh fruit to all of their staff.
Managing Director, Paul Banton said: “The Charter aligns with Ruddocks’ values – our employees are our most important asset and their health and happiness are vital.”
He added: “We sponsor and fund-raise for many local charities, as well as playing an active role in cultivating local talent through our apprenticeship and scholarship schemes.”
The larger the organisation the more activities they must undertake to gain accreditation. In return they can use the charter’s stamp of approval and the council actively promotes all signees.
“The charter is free to sign up for and increases the recognition within Lincolnshire that we are a good place to work that cares about our people,” said Steve Bond, Volunteer & People Development Manager at St Barnabas Hospice.
Among other activities, the charity has been accredited for its Nurse Associate Apprentice scheme, which aims to tackle the shortage of nurses in Lincolnshire.
Graham Rose, Project Manager at City of Lincoln Council, has called the charter a “roaring success so far”.
“We have accredited 26 organisations for displaying a range of activities which highlight them as socially responsible employers in Lincoln.”
The council itself has introduced a staff awards scheme and is offering work experience placements to help develop the future workforce.
Mr Rose added: “We have also recently introduced a social value policy which aims to ensure council employees, contractors and suppliers are aware of our commitment to long term social, ethical, environmental and economic sustainability.”
More information about the social responsibility charter and its requirements can be found on the council website.