Charities and Business

This issue of Dorset Business Focus Magazine highlights some of the wonderful organisations who tirelessly operate in the third sector in the area.

Delivering vital support services and projects which provide positive impact across the length and breadth of the county, charities and not-for-profits are a vital part of the community and infrastructure in Dorset. But during these challenging times, amid rising costs they need your support more than ever.

The benefits of personal volunteering are well known - increased social interaction, self confidence and sense of belonging. Giving back really does make you feel good. But the benefits of supporting a charity are amplified when a business gets behind a cause as a team.

When a workplace unites to fundraise or support a charity it creates a focus point for the team. A shared mission, goal and opportunity to make a difference. It’s a powerful way to energise a company culture and to support team building. Whether it’s a one off-event, a sponsored challenge, or a series of activities run throughout the year, charity partnerships means the whole team can unite, have a role and be a force for good.

How to define wellbeing

We have written several articles and posts on a range of wellbeing topics recently. The word ‘wellbeing’ can mean a variety of different things such as health, welfare, comfort and happiness.

However we choose to define ‘wellbeing’, a healthy and positive work environment can have a real impact on how we feel about other aspects of our life.

Employers can reinforce this at work, by offering access to benefits which support and promote health, such as health insurance, access to employee assistance programmes, gym memberships and cycle to work schemes.

It can stock vending machines with healthy snacks and drinks, ensure employees working areas have access to natural light, are well ventilated and have appropriate working stations. It can also educate and advise staff on taking regular breaks from their screens and encourage them to take lunch breaks, small changes can have a big impact.

As well as the physical environment we work in, it is important to consider the culture of the workplace. Training programmes and up to date, clear policies outlining what is (and is not) acceptable behaviour in the workplace help ensure consistency and can highlight an organisation’s commitment to employee wellbeing. Reviewing policies and procedures can be very beneficial when looking to introduce new initiatives or address any areas of concern.

Emma Starmer, Senior Employment Law and HR Advisor in the Employment team at Lester Aldridge.