Employee Benefits & Wellbeing Handbook
Our Company
About Decora
Established in 1979, Decora originated as a family-owned business that has grown substantially over the past 45 plus years to become one of the most successful and trusted blind manufacturers in the UK & Europe.
At Decora we value your contributions to our success and want to provide you with a benefits package and wellbeing information that protects your health and helps your financial security, now and in the future. We continually look for valuable benefits that support your needs, whether you are single, married, raising a family, or thinking ahead to retirement.
This handbook is an overview and does not provide a complete description of all benefit and wellbeing provisions. For more detailed information, please refer to policy documents or speak with a member of the HR Team.
Who is Covered?
All Decora employees on a permanent or fixed term contract. Agency workers, consultants and contractors are not covered. Qualifying length of service, job role restrictions and department restrictions may apply to some services.
Part of the Mzuri Group
Mzuri Group is a global luxury window coverings group established with the vision to provide an environment where companies can achieve their true potential. Mzuri Group is currently made up of over 15 companies with over 1700 people: designing, engineering and supplying creative and innovative made-to-measure window coverings.
Your Pay & Benefits
Competitive Salaries
At Decora we understand the market and value of each of our employees. We aim to remunerate all employees sufficiently and in accordance with their role and responsibilities.
Bonus Scheme
A company performance based bonus scheme is applicable to managers and supervisors. Further detail will be provided to eligible employees.
Personal and Professional Development
Our aim is for employees to grow with us so we provide a range of career supporting opportunities:
• On the Job Training
• Internal Next-Step Programmes
• Accredited Training Courses
• Educational Support
• Paid Professional Memberships
• Opportunities for Career Progression
• Employee Forum Representation
• First Aid Training and Representation
Pension
The Company’s pension scheme is provided through NEST (National Employment Savings Trust). It is open to all employees.
Upon joining Decora, monthly paid employees will be automatically enrolled in the pension plan. Weekly paid employees will be automatically enrolled upon completion of 3 months service.
NEST’s online service lets you access your plan details 24/7. This means you can keep track of your savings at a time and place that suits you. You can also use their online retirement planning tools to help you fine-tune your retirement plans.
If you have retirement savings built up in other pension plans, you can transfer them into this plan. Having all your retirement savings in one place could make it easier for you to keep track of them. You should speak to a financial adviser before you make a decision.
To find out more visit www.nestpensions.org.uk
Enhanced Annual Leave
At Decora we offer enhanced annual leave arrangements, which are detailed in their employment contract.
Employees can also build service days – 1 extra day for every 3 years of service, capped at 3 extra days.
Paid Time Off for Medical Appointments
Employees are entitled to 5 x 1 hour paid medical / dental appointments per rolling 12-month period. Should an employee be required to attend hospital for a day procedure, Decora will pay for up to 1 full day per rolling 12-month period.
Loyalty Bonus
Decora are committed to rewarding employees for their service and loyalty to our business.
All employees who have completed more than 1 years’ service will receive a £200 gross payment annually in their January salary (last Friday).
Flexi Time Policy
At Decora we acknowledge that work life balance is important to our employees.
We operate a Flexi Time Policy that offers employees flexibility on their start and finish times. It also allows employees the option to build time up within the same month.
The scheme will not be appropriate in all areas of the business due to service delivery needs.
For more information see Flexi Time Policy.
Did you know?
In 2025, 74% of employees received the 1 years’ service bonus.
Quarterly Attendance Bonus
Quarterly Attendance Bonus
We value and appreciate excellent time keeping and attendance from staff. Therefore, for every full quarter worked without any periods of sickness/lateness or absence, employees will receive a £50 One4All voucher. Vouchers will be distributed within 3 weeks of the quarter ending.
The quarterly attendance bonus is based on full attendance during these periods.
Quarter 1 1st January to 31st March
Quarter 2 1st April to 30th June
Quarter 3 1st July to 30th September
Quarter 4 1st October to 31st December
Did you know?
In 2025, an average of 57% of our workforce received an attendance bonus each quarter.
Long Service Awards
Decora recognise the following periods of long service 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 25 years and 30 years. The qualifying periods and month of issue are as follows:
1st January - 30th June June of that year November of that year
1st July - 31st December
Awards for any longer periods of employment will be discretionary.
The award will be a Gift Voucher for the following value:
5 years = £200
10 years = £300
15 years = £400
20 years = £600
25 years = £800
30 years = £1000
Discount on Company Products
All employees with more than 6 months service qualify for 50% discount (pre VAT) on manufactured blind orders and 15% discount (pre VAT) on manufactured shutter orders. Employees can make 3 orders in 1 calendar year with a maximum of 15 blinds per order. Orders can be placed for personal use or for a family member / friend.
For more information see Employee Ordering of Manufactured Blinds Policy.
Employee Referral Scheme
At Decora, we greatly value personal recommendations. Therefore, to recognise and reward successful employee referrals, the Company has an Employee Referral Scheme in place.
In making a referral, the referrer must feel comfortable in presenting the candidate as a potential employee of Decora.
An employee (the referrer) who successfully refers a new employee (the person referred) will receive a £200 One4All voucher and the person referred will also receive a £100 One4All voucher, on successful completion of a minimum 6 month probationary period.
For more information see Employee Referral Scheme Policy.
Employee Recognition
Our employees are important to us and we strive to recognise their efforts and achievements where possible.
Formally, Decora have in place an Employee of the Quarter Scheme. An employee can be nominated and if successful they will receive a £100 One4All voucher.
Informally, we operate a Simply Recognise programme where employees can achieve peer recognition and praise.
For more information see Employee Recognition Scheme Policy.
Employee Suggestion Scheme
Decora operate a Suggestion Scheme as a mechanism to encourage creativity and generate innovative ideas aimed at adding value and benefitting the way we work.
The scheme allows employees the opportunity to shape our existing working practices and in return receive recognition and reward for suggesting enhanced business improvements.
Acceptable suggestions are those which:
• Result in a financial saving / benefits to the Company
• Have a beneficial effect on customer service, brand image or the Company
• Increase in productivity
• Reduction in quality issues
• Procedural improvements
• Environmental impact
For more information see Employee Suggestion Scheme Policy.
Did you know?
If successful in their suggestion the employee will receive a £50 One4All voucher.
AXA Insurance Discount
Decora are pleased to offer a corporate discount to AXA insurance services, for new and existing AXA customers:
• 15% discount on Car Insurance and FREE car rescue
• 10% discount on Home Insurance
• 5% discount on Van Insurance
Crossover discounts available if members have more than one policy.
Drop-in to any of AXA’s 10 local branches across Northern Ireland
Call their own dedicated phone number on 02892 444666
Click for a quote at www.axani.co.uk/decora
(NI only)
SIM Only discount
Decora, through our partner Barclay Communications are able to offer
• 15% discount off High Street SIM only deals
Call Barclay Communications on 02890 960366 quote “Decora”
(UK wide)
DELL Advantage Program
Decora are pleased to be a member of DELL Advantage for Employees. This program allows our employees to receive exclusive discounts of up to 20% across all DELL systems and electronics (Laptops, Desktops, Alienware, Monitors, accessories) for personal/home use.
To avail of the discounts and receive your exclusive voucher code, follow the below;
• Employees with a work email address –use the self-service portal link www.dell.com/en-uk/lp/employees
• Employees with no work email address – send an email from your personal email account to mycoupon@dell. com. Include an image or copy of a confirmation of employment letter, which can be obtained from HR.
Once you have received your voucher code, visit www.dell.co.uk and apply your code during checkout.
If you experience any issues along this process, please contact dell_advantage-uki@dell.com
(UK wide)
Communicating with Our Employees
At Decora, we use a multi-channel approach to ensure all our employees are well informed and connected to our organisational updates.
Employee Forum
Our employee forum provides a platform for open discussions and feedback from our full staff group. We have 15 representatives that attend meetings every two months with management and a HR representative. Action logs of meetings are documented, communicated and displayed on operational noticeboards.
Operational Team Briefs
These offer regular fortnightly updates tailored to specific departments. Information includes operational goals, performance metrics, safety reminders and general company updates.
The Intranet
The Intranet serves as a central hub for company news, resources and policy, and is accessible from any company laptop or desktop PC.
Operational Noticeboards
Operational noticeboards are placed to share key information and reminders in high-traffic areas, such as our canteens and walkways.
Email Updates
These are used to keep employees informed about company marketing, achievements, changes and events.
The Workflow Infinity App
This is used for all employees to view and book annual leave. This app was introduced in Q4 of 2024 and ensures a streamlined process of requesting leave.
Your Wellbeing
Decora are committed to ensuring the protection and promotion of physical health, mental health and wellbeing of employees. It is recognised that the health and wellbeing of employees has a significant impact on a positive workplace culture, and there are actions that can be taken within the work environment and outside of work that can have positive impacts.
Mental health conditions are common with approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK experiencing mental health illness each year. There is often a stigma associated with mental health issues and Decora have a clear policy intended to help with normalising the discussion around mental ill health and the promotion of tools that can be used to assist employees during times of need.
For more information see Health and Wellbeing Policy.
Why Mental Health Matters
Good mental health helps us manage stress, build positive relationships, and perform at our best. However, challenges such as anxiety, stress, and burnout can affect anyone at any time. Recognising the signs early and seeking support can make a significant difference.
Mental Health First Aiders
It is recognised that early intervention is important to assist employees with mental ill health, to aid proactive identification and to direct on support methods. Decora have externally trained Mental Health First Aiders across all sites and shifts.
Mental Health First Aiders are identifiable by “Mental Health First Aider” Badges. A list of Mental Health First Aiders is also available on HSE Noticeboards, on the Intranet or by speaking to a Supervisor or Manager.
Tips for Looking After Your Wellbeing
• Talk About It: Speaking openly about mental health helps break the stigma. If you’re struggling, reach out to a trusted colleague, manager, or friend.
• Stay Active: Regular movement, even a short walk, can boost your energy levels, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine in a way that suits you.
• Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for activities that help you relax, whether it’s reading, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Small moments of self-care can have a big impact on your overall wellbeing.
• Eat Well and Stay Hydrated: A balanced diet fuels both your body and mind. Drinking enough water and eating nutritious meals can help maintain focus and energy throughout the day.
• Get Quality Sleep: Sleep is essential for overall health and productivity. Aim for 7-9 hours of rest each night and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
• Set Boundaries: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key. Plan annual leave to ensure you have downtime to rest and recover.
• Stay Connected: Social connections play a big role in mental wellbeing. Make time for meaningful interactions, whether in person or virtually.
• Seek Support: If you’re finding things difficult, you are not alone. Health Shield offers support and resources to help you navigate challenges.
Support Services
Health Shield
• Virtual GP Anytime Services
Help@hand by Unum
• 24/7 support helpline
• Mental health support
NHS
• Direction on a range of physical and mental health positive behaviours
• Healthy eating, exercise, sleep, nutrition, alcohol, smoking, addiction, and pain management www.nhs.uk/live-well
Lifeline
• Lifeline is a crisis response helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair
• No matter what your age or where you live in Northern Ireland, if you are or someone you know is in distress or despair, Lifeline is here to help www.nhs.uk/live-well
Samaritans
• Help line crisis response UK wide
• Call 116 123 for free www.samaritans.org
Group Life Assurance
This scheme is provided through Unum insurance.
Life can be unpredictable for both businesses and people – so as a valued employee we want to provide as much financial support as possible to your family and dependants in the event of your death.
Our Life Assurance Scheme will provide a tax-free cash payment of 4 times your gross salary to your nominated beneficiaries.
The scheme is renewed annually and the Human Resources Department will automatically add you to the scheme upon completion of 1 year qualifying service.
Your membership in the scheme will cease on the date of whichever of the following events occurs first:
• On reaching the termination of membership, currently set at the state pension age.
• Upon termination, either voluntary or otherwise, from employment with Decora.
You can nominate and amend your beneficiaries as you wish. To do so contact the HR team.
For services associated see Help@hand section.
For Insured employees only (more than 1 year service):
Eligible employees will automatically be enrolled and will receive a welcome email. Please check your junk/spam folder.
Online GP Appointments
Medical Second opinion
Physiotherapy
Mental Health Consultations
1-2-1 lifestyle coaching
Unlimited: Can be utilised by the employee, their partner and Children.
Up to 2 consultations per annum: Can be utilised by the employee, their partner and children.
Up to 8 consultations per annum: To be shared between the employee and their partner.
Provisionally Unlimited: Can be utilised by the employee and their partner.
Up to 6 consultation per annum: Can be utilised by the employee only (sessions are unlocked following the completion of a 360 wellbeing assessment).
There are also a host of services that all employees can access, regardless of length of service, including the following:
‘Employee Assistance Programme’ including 24/7 helpline that offers financial and legal support and wellbeing resources and content
Health Shield
Health Shield is available to all employees with a minimum of 6 months service. Eligible employees will be automatically enrolled and receive a welcome pack.
Employees can avail of various great services, all readily accessible via the Breeze App:
• Health Cash Plan
• Thrive Mental Wellbeing
• Virtual GP Anytime Service
• Online Health Assessment
• Online PERKS Discount Scheme
Health Cash Plan
Employees can claim back the cost of everyday healthcare such as optical, dental and physiotherapy appointments up to a limit of the level they are enrolled at. Decora covers the cost for all employees and children up to the age of 18 at LEVEL 1, however employees have the option to increase their level or add a partner at an additional cost.
Thrive Mental Wellbeing
Understanding your own mind is key to improving your mental health. Thrive is the NHS-approved app that is packed full of tips and techniques to help you to monitor and improve your mental health.
Virtual GP Anytime Service
GP Anytime enables employees to speak to a NHS GP over the phone, or via video consultation, at a time that suits them. There is no limit to the number of times you can use this service and there is the option to have prescriptions delivered directly to your home or work address, if needed.
Online Health Assessments
The better we understand our own health, the better lifestyle decisions we’re able to make. Health Shield offer easy-to-access online health assessments and they are a great way to make simple positive changes to your lifestyle.
Plus, you can receive tips, video guides and advice on nutrition, lifestyle and fitness.
Online
PERKS Discount Scheme
As a Health Shield member you can benefit from a variety of cost effective discounts on shopping, days out and much more. Discounts can be online or retail and are definitely worth checking out!
To find out more simply log on with your membership number: www.healthshield.co.uk/members
Family Friendly Policy
The company is committed to assisting employees as far as possible to combine their career and family responsibilities effectively. This supports Decora’s focus on diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities. Our policy aims to state the benefits and outline support to employees who become pregnant, adopt a child, or whose partner gives birth to a child or adopts a child.
Topical areas of policy;
• Maternity leave and pay
Statutory entitlements.
• Paternity leave and pay
In addition to statutory entitlements, we pay 3 full days leave.
For more information see Family Leave Policy.
Decora also support flexible working requests in line with legislation.
We buy a baby gift for each employee’s new arrival and it is delivered straight to their home.
Bereavement Support
Decora is committed to supporting employees who have suffered a loss. This also includes pregnancy or baby loss.
The Company seeks to support those employees by providing up to 3 days paid bereavement leave.
Full details on this leave and sources of support available to employees are outlined in the Bereavement Leave section of the Company’s Absence Management Guide.
If you are suffering through the loss of a loved one, Cruse Bereavement Support offers support and information for those grieving. You can call their helpline on 0808 808 1677.
The Bereavement support Centre is a charity that can advise you of next steps after the death of a loved one through their website www.bereavementadvice.org
Leisure
Decora have corporate arrangements with the following leisure facilities that all employees are entitled to:
Vitality Leisure Complex
Membership
Employees can access a discounted individual or family membership to all seven leisure facilities within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.
Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Glenmore Activity Centre, Vitality Gym at Billy Neill Country Park, Moneyreagh Community Centre and Kilmakee Activity Centre.
The membership package includes a host of activities including gym, swimming and fitness sessions, as well as tenpin bowling, ice skating and leisure pool activities.
If interested contact the HR Team to receive the required confirmation of employment letter for registration.
(NI only)
Connected Fitness Membership
Lisburn & Lurgan
Employees are entitled to a 15% discount off normal membership fees. Email gym@connectedfitness.uk, quote “Decora” and they will provide the required payment link.
(NI Only)
Get Active ABC Membership
Employees can access a discounted individual membership to all nine leisure facilities within the ABC Council area.
These facilities include Banbridge Leisure Centre, Gilford Community Centre, Dromore Community Centre, Keady Recreation Centre, Orchard Leisure Centre, Rathfriland Community Centre, Richhill Recreation Centre, South Lake Leisure Centre, and Tandragee Recreation Centre.
The membership covers various activities including gym access, swimming, fitness classes, and equipment hire for cycles, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes at South Lake Leisure Centre.
If interested contact the HR Team to receive the required confirmation of employment letter for registration.
(NI Only)
Menopause Awareness
At Decora, we understand that the people who are going through menopause, are not the only people who are affected by it. With a long list and range of possible symptoms including anxiety, mood swings and hot flushes, menopause can be a physically and emotionally distressing time for the woman and her close friends and family.
Here are a few tips on how to handle some of the symptoms:
• Get plenty of rest, including keeping to regular sleep routines.
• Eat a healthy diet and have calcium-rich food like milk, yoghurt and kale to keep bones healthy.
• Exercise regularly, try including weightbearing activities where your feet and legs support your weight like walking, running or dancing.
• Do relaxing things like yoga, tai chi or meditation.
• Talk to other people going through the same thing, like family, friends or colleagues.
• Talk to a doctor before taking herbal supplements or complementary medicines.
There is also support and information provided by charities because everyone experiences menopause differently:
Women’s Health Concernwww.womens-health-concern.org
Menopause Matterswww.menopausematters.co.uk
Daisy Network for premature menopausewww.daisynetwork.org
Menopause Caféwww.menopausecafe.net
If you feel your work is affected by menopause, please do not hesitate to speak to a member of the HR Team.
Our Commitment to a Safe Working Environment
As an employee of Decora, your safety matters to us and we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels supported. We believe that safety is a shared responsibility and that every team member plays a vital role in maintaining a safe working environment.
To uphold this commitment, we:
• Prioritise Safety: We provide a workplace that meets and exceeds health and safety regulations, ensuring that risks are identified, assessed, and minimised.
• Have a dedicated Health and Safety Team: This plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving our workplace safety standards. Audits and various types of risk assessments are conducted regularly to identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions where needed.
• Encourage Open Communication: We promote a culture where employees feel empowered to raise concerns, report hazards, and suggest improvements without fear of reprisal.
• Continuously Improve: We regularly audit, review and update our safety policies and practices to align with best practice and include employee feedback as a key tool in the process.
• Provide Training & Resources: We offer ongoing training, guidance, and the necessary tools to ensure all employees can perform their roles safely and confidently. All our Operational Site Managers are trained in IOSH Managing Safely, a recognised qualification that equips them with the knowledge and skills to manage health and safety risks effectively within our sites.
• Use Compliance Software: We use a user-friendly software platform, OBBI, which allows for quick and easy sharing of critical safety information, making it easier for employees to stay informed and trained. This also promotes effective reporting.
If you have concerns or suggestions regarding safety, please reach out to your Supervisor, Manager or a member of our HSE Team.
Defibrillators
According to the British Heart Foundation, in the UK there are over 30,000 out-ofhospital cardiac arrests every year, they inform that early CPR and defibrillation can double the chances of surviving.
Decora has fully automatic Defibrillators in place across all sites. They provide valuable assistance via their one-piece CPR-D electrode, giving a rescuer immediate feedback on depth and rate of compressions during CPR. It’s hoped that we will not need to use this potentially lifesaving equipment, however we are prepared to respond quickly if the need arises.
Financial Wellbeing
There is no magic number or measure that says you are financially well. Financial wellbeing is about mindset. It’s about your relationship with money, not just how much you’ve got.
Financial wellbeing means feeling comfortable about money. It means knowing what makes you feel secure and putting in place the money goals to achieve that security.
Why is Financial Wellbeing Important?
Money is one of the most common causes of stress. Financial insecurity – or money worries – can be very damaging to mental and physical health, and relationships. Sadly, the many challenges we’re facing in today’s world mean that it’s a very real problem.
• Money worries: 45% of the UK population are stressed or feel their mental health has been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis - Standard Life Retirement Voice 2024.
• Financial Pressure: 51% of people could not live on their emergency savings for more than three months - Aegon report - Our insight to the nation’s financial wellbeing 2024.
• Looking for help: Only 17% of people have a plan to achieve their long-term money goals - Aegon report - Our insight to the nation’s financial wellbeing 2024
Financial Support
Decora have formed a partnership with IQ&Co and MortgageIQ so that employees have a service for support. They are a financial planning business that serves those from every walk of life and through every stage of life.
IQ&Co - How we can help? We understand that financial wellbeing isn’t just about how much money you’ve got in the bank.
We focus on helping you create a clear picture of what you want your future to look like. What makes your life enjoyable and meaningful. What you want your wealth to achieve. It’s the bigger picture of what financial wellbeing means to you that matters to us.
We offer a range of services from local advisers who can support with your financial goals, for example if you need to:
• Discuss buying your first home or your next home
• Reduce your mortgage payments
• Review your old pension pots
• Take money from your pension (over 55)
• Understand your current pension
• Get a better return on your savings and investments
• Save for retirement, yourself or your children
• Understand what happens if you die
• Understand what happens if you are off work sick
• Organise your financial plan
• Business owner advice
Book an appointment with one of our experienced advisers by visiting www.iqandco.com/contact or calling 028 9042 8000
If you’re experiencing financial difficulties in the UK, several organizations offer free, confidential advice and support:
• Citizens Advice: Provides guidance on managing debts, budgeting, and understanding your rights. You can contact them online or visit a local branch. citizensadvice.org.uk
• National Debtline: An independent charity offering free debt advice. They can help you assess your situation and explore options to manage your debts. nationaldebtline.org
If your financial worries are affecting your mental health, it’s important to seek support.
Retirement Planning
Decora recognises that retirement is a milestone of great significance in an individual’s life and therefore offer wind down to retirement support. However, please note that due to the abolishment of the default retirement age, the Company will not contact employees who are approaching potential retirement age.
Employees who give notice of their intention to retire may reduce their working hours as they approach retirement with no loss in pay. The reduction of hours will be calculated based on the employee’s contractual hours and entitlement is based on the employee’s length of continuous service. Employees with under 5 years’ service that wish to retire should work their normal notice period as detailed in their contract of employment.
For more information see Retirement Policy.
1 5 – 9 years
period: 1 month
2 10-14 years
3
Charity Commitment
Decora are committed to making a positive impact by supporting local and national charities through various initiatives each year.
In 2024, we raised over £5000 for the following charities:
Decora has an established Charity Committee who coordinate activities and encourage employees and their families to get involved. For example:
• Sponsorships
• Wear it pink
• Raffles
• Colouring competitions for all ages
• Santa Letters
Together, we can make a real difference. If you’d like to participate or suggest a cause, please reach out to the Charity Committee, charity@decora.co.ukwe’d love to hear from you!
If there is a specific charity that you would like to make donations to, you can contact our payroll team to make regular charitable donations through our Charitable Giving scheme.
