Being a good employer

Caring is at the very heart of Lench’sTrust’s ethos and this has always been extended to its staff who are key to the Trust’s achievements throughout its history. Like for its residents the advantage of a small organisation is that the individuals, rather than the numbers, count.

TheTrust has extensiveTerms of Employment which have evolved over the years and we ensure, through our professional contractors, that they are both up to date and relevant to our working practice – for example in terms of flexible working, salaries and pension arrangements.

Professional development is also key to theTrust’s achievements – and to the personal achievement of individual members of staff, which brings much job satisfaction.Training and networking opportunities are offered on a regular basis throughout the organisation.

We also outsource our Health & Safety advice and support to ensure that we maintain a safe environment, free of unnecessary risks and impediments, both for our residents and our staff.

Finally it is worth noting that theTrust’s policy of promoting diversity has seen much progress in its workforce and we will strive to continue in this important area to ensure Lench’sTrust fully represents Birmingham and all its diverse communities.

Head Office at William Lench Court (above) and a Scheme Manager Meeting (below) with (clockwise from top right): Lorna Pusey (Supported Housing Manager), Jayne McGettrick (William Lench Court), Maria Bell (Lench’s Close) and Marion O’Mara (Tanner’s Close)

You said...

 The staff is keen to continue its professional developments to keep abreast of new thinking and ways of improving their work for the benefits of the residents.

 Work-life balance continues to be critical for staff.

 The working environment is important for job satisfaction.

...We did

 Trustees approve an annual training budget which members of staff are encouraged to access for their continuous developments.Training in-house or outside the place of work, and attendance at conference and networking events is pro-actively encouraged.

 More staff are now taking advantage of our FlexibleTime working arrangements.

 The transfer of Head Office toWilliam Lench Court has vastly improved the working environment of the team and as been conducive, as reported by staff, to more “teamwork”.

 We are also currently improving the office space at Lench’s Close as part of the refurbishment.