Making a Difference & Employee Wellbeing
“This
Hazel Hennessy, Head of Communications and Relationships, Philanthropy Ireland Page 02
“No
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~Seán Bergin, Fundraising Manager, Barnardos Read more on Page 03
A holiday guide to family philanthropy and thoughtful gift-giving
While Christmas is often associated with gift-giving, it also offers a unique opportunity to engage in a more meaningful act of generosity: family philanthropy.
As the season of giving approaches, there’s no better time to reflect on the joy of sharing with others. Coming together as a family to give can provide an opportunity to discuss family values, strengthen bonds, teach important values to younger generations and create a lasting impact in your community.
Thoughtful approach to family philanthropy
Starting your family philanthropy journey can be a rewarding and meaningful experience, and there are several, simple ways to get started. Begin by exploring resources that offer guidance on charitable giving.
Philanthropy Ireland’s website is a valuable tool, providing insights on how to approach giving as a family and case studies from other families engaging in philanthropy. By using these resources as inspiration and through engaging with Ireland’s philanthropy community you can create a structured and thoughtful approach to giving, ensuring that your family’s philanthropy makes a lasting difference.
How to start the conversation on family giving
Talking about philanthropy as a family doesn’t have to be difficult. Below are some tips to help you get started.
Schedule a family meeting: Set aside time during your holiday gatherings to discuss charitable giving. This could be after Christmas dinner or during a quiet evening.
Share personal stories: Encourage each family member to talk about causes that matter to them and why. Sharing personal experiences can help everyone connect emotionally.
Set goals together: Decide, as a family, what you want to achieve through your giving. Whether it’s supporting local food banks, environmental initiatives or global causes, defining a common goal will unite your efforts.
Build a new tradition through family philanthropy
This season, use the opportunity to build a lasting tradition of giving. When families work together to support causes they care about, it brings a deeper connection and reinforces values of empathy, gratitude and responsibility. Family philanthropy is not just about making donations; it’s about coming together to create a better future for all.
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Corporate and nonprofit synergy builds pathways to sustainability
As the climate crisis escalates, collaboration between businesses, NGOs and communities offers an opportunity to drive transformative solutions, supporting those most affected and fostering a sustainable future.
The stakes are particularly high for communities in the Global South, which disproportionately bear the brunt of climate change despite contributing the least to its causes. “Businesses can be drivers of change and can do a lot to help bring solutions to global problems — but no one can tackle the challenges on their own,” says Susan Kirk, senior philanthropy advisor at Trócaire. “We all have a responsibility when it comes to global social and environmental problems. And by working together — NGOs, businesses, civil society and governments — we can achieve so much more.”
Community-driven solutions
Through long-term investment and partnerships, businesses can lead on
solutions to sustainability challenges. However, meaningful impact requires collaboration with experienced nonprofit organisations that work directly with affected communities.
Trócaire, for example, implements community-driven initiatives to adapt to changes in climate. In Zimbabwe, corporate-funded integrated water programmes have improved access to clean water and climate-smart agriculture, helping communities adapt to extreme weather. In Somalia, one of the countries most affected by climate change, a successful partnership enabled the construction of a new hospital in Gedo, providing life-saving care to thousands.
Another example of the impact of a partnership was a Trócaire pilot project for access to education for 50 women in Nyaruguru, Rwanda.
The success of the original project funded by an Irish business led to further funding, allowing the project to scale up. It demonstrates how relatively small projects can evolve into life-changing initiatives with lasting community impact. “It’s hugely transformative both for local communities and for those that have helped make it happen. It’s about aligning with people who share the same values,” Kirk says.
Building authenticity
Opportunities are there for strong collaborations between the private sector, local community-led organisations and governments to drive lasting social and environmental sustainability, says Kirk. The introduction of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) helps organisations track their progress on environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals.
“It’s an opportunity to innovate and collaborate,” she explains. “Taking action is crucial.’’
The challenge is immense, but united action can bring change. By working together and using their different areas of expertise, businesses, civil society and NGOs can have such a positive impact on those affected most by the climate crisis. “This is about hope for the future,” Kirk says. “To build a fairer, healthier and more equitable world.”
Contact susan.kirk@trocaire.org or niamh.dockery@ trocaire.org for further information.
in 24 countries and has been addressing the issues of
change for
Its philanthropy department partners with corporations and individuals on long-term transformative projects. To learn more, scan the QR code.
Hazel Hennessy Head of Communications and Relationships, Philanthropy Ireland
Susan Kirk Senior Philanthropy Advisor, Trócaire
Trócaire operates
climate
decades.
*Image description: Visiting Trócaire run Luuq Hospital in SomaliaNiamh Dockery, Philanthropy Advisor, Trócaire with Dr Shukri Abdi, Trócaire’s first female Somalian doctor at the hospital.
Sponsored by Trócaire
ImageprovidedbyTrocaire
WRITTEN BY Sarah Brown
Advocacy and public support break down inclusivity barriers during the holidays
The festive season exposes the daily struggles of people with disabilities, highlighting the need for systemic change, inclusive infrastructure and empowering community efforts through public support and charity work.
The festive season is a time for connection and celebration. However, for people with disabilities, it can amplify the barriers they face daily. Inaccessible venues, pathways littered with barriers and poorly designed infrastructure can turn the season of joy into one of isolation and frustration.
Joan Carthy, Advocacy Manager at Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), explains the impact of these challenges. “People with disabilities may end up deciding not to brave the elements and instead choose to stay at home. It’s an enforced loneliness,” she says.
Daily accessibility challenges
For individuals like Abby Smyth, a 22-year-old wheelchair user from Galway City, these barriers are all too familiar. Navigating poorly designed streets often feels unsafe. To cross the road from the shops to get to her bus stop, she must leave the path, wheel onto a driveway and hope for a break in the traffic. “You’re literally hoping for the best that the cars will stop. It’s scary, to be honest,” she says.
someone with a disability isn’t afforded equal access to society like everyone else.”
Support fosters autonomy
Empowering people and advocating for systemic improvements are essential for fostering autonomy and reducing isolation — goals that charities can help achieve through their transformative support. Smyth, member of IWA’s School Leaver programme, has gained greater freedom and confidence, thanks to these efforts. “A few years ago, I never would have dreamed of using public transport. Now, I can travel across the city on my own,” she says.
It’s the small everyday things that are probably the most frustrating because someone with a disability isn’t afforded equal access to society like everyone else.
Onboard public transport limitations add to the difficulty. Train travel requires advance notice, and wheelchair spaces on buses are limited. “It takes away the spontaneity because outings require additional planning,” Carthy notes. “It’s the small everyday things that are probably the most frustrating because
Inclusion removes barriers
Accessibility issues remain, such as venues without lifts and inaccessible toilets, which prevent wheelchair users from fully participating in social activities. IWA is actively working to remove these barriers by advocating for better infrastructure and providing vital support services. During the festive season, group outings help members like Smyth navigate busy streets and enjoy the holiday season atmosphere more safely.
Carthy emphasises the importance of community-based solutions and the power of giving back, no matter how small. “The magic happens at the community level,” she says. “Inclusion ensures that no one is left behind during the holidays.”
Breaking the cycle of social issues through meaningful partnerships
Strategic collaborations between charities, individuals and businesses drive sustainable impact, addressing complex social issues in Ireland while fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
In a world of increasing challenges, giving back is more than a charitable act; it is an investment in building stronger, more resilient communities.
Strategic partnerships between charities, businesses and the wider public are key to creating long-term, sustainable impact.
Strategic giving matters
Charities play a unique role in addressing complex social issues. By combining immediate relief with initiatives that tackle root causes, they create pathways for long-term change. However, no organisation can succeed alone. Charitable partnerships with businesses or individual supporters offer an opportunity to amplify impact, extend resources and develop effective solutions.
For example, Barnardos focus on early intervention has been critical in addressing issues such as child poverty, parental mental health and getting kids ready for school. “Early intervention transforms
to social responsibility through impactful collaborations. By aligning with charities, companies not only contribute to critical local services but also build stronger ties with their communities, enhance brand reputation and deliver measurable social impact.
The earlier we reach a child, the greater their chance to thrive throughout their life.
lives,” says Seán Bergin, Fundraising Manager. “The earlier we reach a child, the greater their chance to thrive throughout their life.”
Meeting growing needs
The rising cost of living has placed increasing strain on families, many of whom already face significant challenges. In 2023, the charity supported over 26,000 children and families, marking a 25% increase in families supported compared to the previous year. Despite their efforts, over 2,000 children in Ireland remain on waiting lists for essential services. “Demand has never been higher,” Bergin explains. “Partnerships enable us to maintain and grow our services, ensuring we can support the families who need us most.”
Corporate collaboration
Businesses have a unique opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating a commitment
As Bergin notes: “When companies invest in a charity’s mission, they’re investing in a future where vulnerable families are better supported. At Barnardos, we believe childhood lasts a lifetime, so we have to change the story now.”
Small actions, big impact
Small contributions can have a big impact, explains Bergin. For instance, Barnardos breakfast clubs provide nutritious meals to children who would otherwise go without, with €50 funding a month’s breakfasts for one child.
As well as immediate help, corporate and community partnerships create opportunities to address systemic challenges such as intergenerational trauma and deprivation.
“Transformative impact comes from strategic, long-term collaboration,” Bergin says. “By working together, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.”
Seán Bergin Fundraising Manager, Barnardos
Find out more at barnardos.ie
Sponsored by Barnardos
Abby Smyth Member, Irish Wheelchair Association
Joan Carthy Advocacy Manager, Irish Wheelchair Association Find
Sponsored by Irish Wheelchair Association
WRITTEN BY Sarah Brown
WRITTEN BY
Sarah Brown
Giving back and boosting company morale during the holiday season
The holiday season is an opportunity to connect with the spirit of giving and make a positive impact on individuals and families in need, especially those facing financial hardship, food insecurity or homelessness.
Many organisations run festive campaigns, such as donating proceeds from specific products, organising employee-led charity events or partnering with charities focused on issues such as homelessness, children in need or elder loneliness.
Corporate donations and volunteer opportunities
Toy appeals, food parcels or charity fundraising events, for instance, can boost team morale and foster a sense of unity and purpose among employees. They can also offer a company an impactful way of engaging with customers and partners.
Sustainable handcrafted toys for children
For example, for over 50 years, Sisk carpentry and joinery apprentices have been making and delivering toys to sick or disadvantaged children at Christmas time. The toys are handcrafted using 70% recycled wooden materials from timber off-cuts.
Corporate generosity during the holiday season can create lasting change.
A good example of this is Enterprise Mobility’s annual Friends and Family Cinema Event to support the Dublin Simon Community. This year, they hosted a private screening of Paddington in Peru. They invited customers and partners to bring their families to the cinema and provided treats for the children and adults attending. In return, guests were asked to bring a small ‘Winter Woolie’ donation.
Values-aligned charity boosts business Aligning with charity partners or initiatives that reflect core business values not only drives social impact but also benefits the company by enhancing brand reputation, fostering skills development and boosting employee satisfaction.
“Our toy story is culturally engrained into the business and is a testament to the family culture within Sisk; it gives everyone connected with it a real sense of pride. It is a key part of our apprenticeship programme that enables us to mould good people upon completion of their time with us,” shared Ronan Murphy, Sisk Joinery and Training Manager.
Corporate generosity fosters unity
By engaging in charitable initiatives, businesses not only demonstrate their commitment to social impact but can also inspire their employees, customers and partners to come together for a common cause. Whether through donations, volunteer work or community events, the collective impact of corporate generosity during the holiday season can create lasting change and foster a sense of unity that extends well beyond the festive period.
Why volunteering is a win-win for you and the community
Volunteering is something we may not think about too often, but if you look around, you’ll see the impact of volunteers everywhere.
What they do often goes unseen, but volunteering makes up the social fabric of our communities. When people volunteer, they feel closer to their community and the people in it, and they take pride in their community.
Multifaceted benefits of volunteering
Volunteering doesn’t just have a big impact on communities; it can have lots of positive benefits for the people who volunteer. Making new friends, experiencing improved mental health and feeling an increased sense of belonging to their community are just some of the benefits experienced by volunteers. Not to mention, it can be great fun.
Small actions make a big difference
Giving back doesn’t always have to mean a huge time commitment — small actions can make a big difference to a community. It can be as simple as checking in on a neighbour or maybe helping out at the school sports day. There are lots of ‘one-off’ ways to get involved in your community too, even over the festive period. For instance, you could deliver dinners to those in need on Christmas day or help out at a festive fun run. It will just take a few hours of your life, but it could make a big difference to someone else’s.
Looking to the new year, why not consider becoming a community volunteer?
It’s easy to get involved
Looking to the new year, why not consider becoming a community volunteer? It’s a great chance for those who want to get involved in their community through events, festivals and occasional urgent support but don’t have much time. You can get involved as often or as little as you like, when it suits your schedule. You get to avail of training, be part of a team and even get a T-shirt. Visit communityvolunteers.ie to find out more. If you’re looking for a more regular role or need some more support thinking about what you’d like to do, visit volunteer.ie to apply for roles or find your local Volunteer Centre. There is something for everyone.
Amy Woods Head of Advocacy and Engagement, Volunteer Ireland
Linda O’Sullivan Head of Social Inclusion, Business in the Community
Simple steps for writing a Will in 2025 to protect loved ones and make a difference
Get ready for the holidays with meaningful gifts, heartfelt donations and plans for a secure future. Start the New Year right by making resolutions, including writing your Will.
Christmas is drawing near and our thoughts are focused on loved ones and what the New Year will bring at a time of great global uncertainty. Resolutions may also be front of mind and, for many people, this may include finally getting around to writing a Will.
Low Will writing in Ireland
Did you know that, according to recent RED C research, just 27% of people living in Ireland aged 18+ have a Will in place, despite the opportunity it brings to protect loved ones, distribute your assets as you wish and reduce tax and potential delays for your bereaved family? In the same research, 34% of RED C respondents said they didn’t have a Will but felt they should have one.
Perhaps now is the time to make an appointment with a solicitor. Two-thirds of RED C respondents also reported that they felt unsure about the process of writing a Will. Yet, it is very straightforward.
Will writing steps and preparation
The first step is simply to make that appointment call. In most cases, it will only take an hour or so of your time. It’s helpful to note your beneficiaries, potential guardians for any children and the approximate value of your assets in advance. Your solicitor will guide you through everything you might need to consider in your circumstances at your appointment.
Personal impact on communities
Writing your Will also offers an opportunity to make a positive difference to our shared future society by including a charitable gift to a cause that is important to you. What cause or charity would you choose? Imagine the positive impact we could collectively make in our communities and beyond if we each included a charitable gift in our Will. It also brings the personal satisfaction of knowing that we will be improving the lives of others in a very personal way. It truly is a special opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
Could your legacy be one of ending homelessness?
When James was four years old, he was sleeping in a car. Today, James has a home and is safe, thanks to support from generous people like you.
What if I told you that you had the power to help end homelessness? This means that, when there are families at risk of losing their home, they have immediate advice and support. Everyone has a right to a place they can call home: somewhere to feel settled and safe. When you sleep in a car or have to live in emergency accommodation, your world collapses. Homelessness is wrong, but it can be prevented.
You can help end homelessness
It is possible to end homelessness for the families that are living in emergency accommodation, but we need your help to make this happen. By including a gift in your Will to Focus Ireland, you can make a powerful statement that shows you stand in solidarity against homelessness. You will help ensure families and children can have a loving home.
“I visited the projects my donations were helping to fund. It made it very real; meeting the team that make it happen, seeing the benefits and real change that happens with our support. I wanted to do more, and I have pledged a donation in my Will,” shares Elizabeth, a legacy supporter.
Your inspiring, loving legacy
Your legacy could be one of making a lasting difference — helping to end homelessness for families and children across Ireland. Through generous people like you, Focus Ireland helps families, children and young people, supporting them through difficulties and helping them stay in their homes. Big or small, your gift can change lives affected by homelessness.
P.S. You are welcome to get in touch or return the slip below. With a gift in your Will to Focus Ireland, your legacy of kindness lives on beyond your lifetime.
Name:
Address:
Eircode:
Telephone:
Loan finance for your community or social enterprise
Flexible loans are available to help Irish community groups and social enterprises overcome financial barriers, enabling growth and impact.
Community and voluntary groups and social enterprises across Ireland play a vital role in enhancing the fabric of our society. From sports clubs and arts organisations to environmental initiatives, these groups contribute immensely to the well-being of our communities. However, access to finance can sometimes be a barrier to achieving their goals.
This is where social finance can play a role. A social finance term or bridging loan from €10,000 to €600,000 is available to organisations that might struggle to secure financing from traditional lenders.
Inclusive, accessible financing
Whether your group is planning to build a new facility, expand services or bridge funding gaps while awaiting Government grant payments, flexible loan solutions are available. Social finance lenders understand the unique challenges and opportunities that community groups face. They focus on your group’s social impact and potential — not just your financial statements.
Social finance for communities
Set up in 2007 by the Government, Social Finance Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that has provided over €240 million in loans to more than 2,400 community projects nationwide through two partner social lending organisations: Clann Credo and Community Finance Ireland. Since its inception, the organisation has received support, low-cost and donated funding from AIB, Bank of Ireland and ptsb, as well as the Council of Europe Development Bank. It has also received additional assistance from the European Investment Fund.
Ready to take the next step?
Philanthropy & Legacy Officer, Focus Ireland
Return to: Focus Ireland, 9-12 High Street, Christchurch, D08 E1W0
If your community group is ready to grow, improve and make a social impact and a loan would help, you can make your project a reality. Get your community financed for social good. Visit Social Finance Foundation to learn more about social finance or contact either Community Finance Ireland or Clann Credo directly for information on how to secure a social finance loan. Together, we can empower your community group to thrive and make a lasting impact.
Garrett O’Donohoe CEO,
Sponsored by Social Finance Foundation
Focus Ireland
Assia Buono
Niall O’Sullivan Chairperson, My Legacy
gift
mylegacy.ie
Guidelines for enhancing inclusion and talent support in the workplace
Discover a framework that enhances workplace wellbeing with pillars on inclusion and belonging, as well as talent support to help companies thrive through diversity and development.
In September 2024, Ibec launched the updated KeepWell Mark™ framework, modernising all pillars to reflect current best practices in workplace wellbeing. Two new pillars — ‘Inclusion and Belonging’ and ‘Talent, Support and Development’ — will help companies elevate their workplace wellbeing culture.
Inclusion and belonging is good for business
An inclusive culture can help shift the dial so that more people have the chance to thrive at work. Employers must also comply with legal obligations supporting workplace inclusion. The new Inclusion and Belonging pillar aims to provide a structured approach to driving an inclusive culture in support of wellbeing, where individuals feel valued and supported to excel, regardless of background. It provides standards for employers, which will guide them in how to approach core aspects such as policies, training, branding and strategy.
Global research on the benefits of EDI Research has shown that gender, ethnic and cultural diversity, particularly within executive teams, are strongly linked to financial performance. Gender diverse organisations outperform their peers by 15% on all of the key financial indicators while ethnically diverse organisations are more likely to outperform peers by a staggering 35%.
Recent research has also revealed that diverse thinkers help us solve complex problems as we are less likely to suffer from groupthink.
Key areas of evidence that companies need to showcase to demonstrate their commitment to the Inclusion and Belonging pillar include:
• Evidence that the company is committed to promoting an inclusive culture (eg. Employee Resource Groups, diverse hiring practices)
• Evidence that policies have been reviewed to determine their impact on inclusion
• Inclusive policies
• Dignity At Work policy and/or procedure
• Engagement in some campaigns/initiatives that underpin the business’s commitment to supporting individuals and groups from various communities and backgrounds (eg. Pride Month, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, etc.)
• Evidence of employee training in areas that support inclusion
Supporting talent and growth
The Talent, Support and Development pillar helps to build a resilient workforce, enabling organisations to adapt to market changes, retain top talent and foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
A Talent, Support and Development strategy focuses on identifying high-potential employees; providing training and career growth opportunities; managing performance with regular feedback; and fostering employee engagement through recognition and flexibility. It also promotes diversity and inclusion through supportive policies and culture.
Why organisations
should commit to a ‘holistic’ employee wellbeing strategy
Companies that are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, integrity and accountability can do so by putting employee wellbeing at the forefront of their endeavours.
When a company takes a holistic approach to employee wellbeing, the results are both empowering and powerful. This commitment has earned biopharma company Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) the prestigious Ibec KeepWell Mark accreditation, a recognition of its robust mental, physical and social health resources and initiatives.
Wellbeing boosts productivity and workplace culture Health and wellbeing policies are not just beneficial for employees; they also drive business and wider team success. “A healthy and engaged workforce is more productive,” explains Grainne Donegan, Health and Wellbeing Engagement Group Lead and Manager, QA Laboratory Operations. “Employee wellbeing directly contributes to our overall performance. It will improve our workplace culture, drive innovation and growth and increase employee satisfaction.”
Comprehensive employee health support
To support employees’ physical health, BMS’s facility at Cruiserath includes an onsite gym with personal trainer-led fitness classes, yoga sessions and many sport clubs. “We also have an Occupational Health Team, which offers preventative services such as health screenings, sleep awareness, skin and bowel cancer screening and health stations, giving employees an easily accessible support to address unhealthy behaviours,” adds Rebreanu.
Managers lead by example through modelling healthy behaviours and promoting a ‘speak up’
culture.
~Gabriela Rebreanu Associate Director, Occupational Health, Europe, Bristol
For example, the company runs mental health educational programmes to help managers recognise when an employee may need support and care. Its Employee Assistance Programme offers support for stress management and confidential counselling services for employees and families; its Mental Health Allies programme is run by volunteer employees who are certified in Mental Health First Aid to support and direct colleagues as needed. “We want to champion a cultural shift around mental health,” says Gabriela Rebreanu, Associate Director, Occupational Health, Europe. “That means de-stigmatising and normalising the conversation around it.”
Donegan Health and Wellbeing Engagement Group Lead and Manager, QA Laboratory
Operations,
“Plus, our Health and Wellbeing Team runs self-care programmes and invites guest speakers to address employees on various wellbeing topics.” This involves collaborating with food vendors to create healthy menu options that meet the needs of both shift and day workers. Finally, for social health, several of BMS’s People and Business Resource Groups in Ireland offer everything from team-building exercises to volunteering and community engagement.
Managers should lead by example Naturally, any successful employee health and wellbeing strategy has to start from the top. “Managers lead by example through modelling healthy behaviours and promoting a ‘speak up’ culture,” says Rebreanu. “They also support wellbeing initiatives through awareness, advocacy and integration into work practices, such as our popular flexible working policy. We’re fully committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, integrity and accountability — employee wellbeing is at the forefront of that.”
Find out more at careers.bms.com/ie
Grainne
Bristol Myers Squibb
Gabriela Rebreanu Associate Director, Occupational Health, Europe, Bristol Myers Squibb
Sponsored by Bristol Myers Squibb
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Myers Squibb
Sarah McSharry KeepWell Mark Account Manager, Ibec
Accessible and diverse wellbeing resources are needed to build team resilience
Irish telecoms company Three Ireland prioritises employee wellbeing, working to embed mental health into the organisation’s culture by promoting diverse and accessible resources as well as partnership with Irish mental health charity, Aware.
Priyanka Jaiswal, Director of People Proposition at Three Ireland, discusses the importance of making employee wellbeing a priority. “Mental health is a cornerstone of our wellbeing strategy, alongside physical, social and financial wellness,” she says.
“In an industry that’s ever evolving, it’s important for us to equip our employees with the skills and knowledge they need to embrace change confidently. When wellbeing is embedded in the culture of a company, research shows that organisations report improved performance, higher engagement and better retention.”
Diverse and accessible resources
With a workforce that spans office-based roles, retail teams and customer service centres — each with unique needs and challenges — adopting a ‘one size fits all’ approach is not an option. Three Ireland regularly listens to employee feedback to ensure their initiatives keep up with their needs, circling back to their wider commitment to foster inclusion and belonging.
and complete wellbeing surveys to foster a supportive environment for all of our employees.
“We hold regular check-ins and our diversity, inclusion and belonging committee is instrumental in ensuring we are evolving with the needs of our people,” she adds. “Everything we do is intentional and based on the feedback we receive, and we embrace the diversity of our workforce by offering our people choices, tools and opportunities that support them as individuals.”
Award-winning collaborative approach
By embedding mental health into our culture, we ensure our employees feel valued and empowered every day.
“In 2024, we launched a series of in-person mental health training sessions for all managers across our office and retail locations, giving them the tools they need to pick up initial signs of poor mental health and provide support,” Jaiswal explains. “We also have mental health first aiders and regularly run stress workshops, motivational talks
Paternity leave sends a powerful message of inclusivity and allyship
Stephen McCarthy, CFO, Aviva Insurance Ireland, has personal experience with paternity leave. He believes it strengthens the family bond while advancing gender equity at work.
WRITTEN BY
When did you take paternity leave?
I took a few months off over the summer to spend time with the new arrival in our family, our daughter Caragh. It was easy to arrange and everyone in Aviva was supportive. I was always fearful that my career aspirations and desire to be a good dad would one day clash, and it is great to work for an organisation where you can have both.
What did it mean for you and your family?
In a child’s early months, there are a lot of ‘firsts’ and it was brilliant to have the time off to be there for those important moments. I really enjoyed becoming part of the ‘daytime squad’ with our baby
With such efforts recognised at Chambers Ireland’s Sustainable Business Impact Awards, Three Ireland was awarded the ‘Excellence in Health and Wellbeing’ award, affirming their holistic strategy and commitment to inclusion and belonging.
Jaiswal continues: “Recognising the impact of early mental health intervention, we work with our charity partner, Aware, to provide resources and education for employees affected by mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
“By embedding mental health into our culture, we ensure our employees feel valued and empowered every day. We are working to normalise conversations about mental health throughout our organisation so that everyone feels that they are being listened to and supported.”
Caragh, my partner Emma and our dog Nala.
Is taking paternity leave an act of male allyship?
I believe it is, and as a senior member of the management team, I wanted to set the tone from the top and lead by example. Paternity leave supports the advancement of gender equity in the workplace and encourages broader societal changes regarding caregiving and family dynamics. It recognises that taking time off for family is important and acceptable.
Can it reduce the stigma women face for taking family leave? Absolutely; creating an
expectation that both parents will take time off to care for their newborn helps to distribute the responsibility of childcare more evenly. As a result, women are less likely to be penalised or overlooked for promotions and opportunities, fostering a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.
How can returning employees have a smooth transition back into work?
I stayed connected with colleagues throughout my paternity leave, which I found quite helpful. Of course, there’s no pressure to do this, but I felt it helped me stay connected which made it easier to come back.
How would you sum up the benefits of paternity leave?
It fosters a more inclusive work culture, helps companies attract and retain talent and breaks down social and gender norms. It also improves employee engagement. If you give parents the chance to fully focus on family life during this special time, they return to work with greater clarity and increased productivity. Where feasible, companies should consider the long-term benefits to both employees and the business of having equal paternity and maternity leave policies.
Priyanka Jaiswal Director of People Proposition, Three Ireland and Three UK
Stephen McCarthy Chief Financial Officer, Aviva Insurance Ireland
Sponsored by Three Ireland
Sponsored by Aviva
WRITTEN BY
Bethany Cooper
Tony Greenway
What
the best workplaces for health and wellbeing have in common
Organisations with a strong commitment to employee wellbeing are the ones that can consistently succeed and build trust-driven cultures that empower their people to thrive.
At Great Place to Work, we are committed to helping organisations build high-trust cultures that drive success. One constant that stands out time and time again for us: no workplace can thrive without a strong, authentic commitment to employee wellbeing.
Employers of all sizes can help employees succeed
Earlier this year, we announced the Best Workplaces for Health and Wellbeing, recognising organisations from a wide variety of sizes and industries, from small engineering firms to large retailers. Despite their differences, these workplaces share key qualities that consistently contribute to employee success.
Key patterns across sectors
Organisations are often tempted to address wellbeing solely at a tactical level, such as offering healthy eating options or gym memberships. However, employers who focus only on surface-level incentives can fall short of creating meaningful impact long-term.
The Best Workplaces for Health and Wellbeing have cultivated high-trust work environments by establishing a foundation which prioritises people at its core, allowing employees to feel secure in their roles and able to express themselves freely. These organisations recognise the strong link between employee wellbeing and performance, understanding that when people are supported, they can thrive both professionally and personally.
This balance takes a commitment to ongoing communication and understanding from both employees and employers. Those who have gotten it right are the ones consistently leading the way in their industry.
Shifting from standard solutions
We are past the point of one-size-fits-all approaches; there is now an increasing need for organisations to truly understand the unique needs of their workforce. This requires a datadriven, empathetic approach where leaders listen to employee feedback and take action. Organisations might experiment with new work methods to find the best fit for their teams or offer opportunities for employees to pursue their passions.
Different life cycles require different modes to underpin performance. From what we have seen, the best organisations are listening and responding. The best workplaces don’t just offer perks — they foster trust, understanding and performance. At Great Place to Work, we celebrate those who prioritise employee wellbeing, creating environments where people and organisations can truly flourish.
Building trust to enhance the vehicle financing journey
The journey to financing vehicles can be complex. Research suggests that 45% of people expect it to be difficult and that only 5% trust all car dealers.
At Close Brothers Motor Finance, we are committed to changing these stats, and it starts with trust. We build partnerships with colleagues, customers and partners to simplify vehicle financing. We collaborate with digital partners like DoneDeal and CarsIreland, encourage innovation from our team and work with over 650 accredited dealers across Ireland.
The importance of trust
We are known for building real partnerships with our colleagues, partners and customers, which is crucial. We recently won an industry accolade: the Trust Award at the FS Awards 2024. This could only happen as a result of our people, otherwise known as the Motor Finance People. It confirms our industry leader status, which reflects our successful collaborations with digital and dealer partners.
Making online vehicle purchases easier
Most buyers start their purchase journey online. The ever-evolving journey starts online and tends to end in a dealer showroom. However, before arriving at a dealer, we’ve added a new level of ease and transparency for buyers when arranging the finance.
Through our digital partners, customers can access an online application form, available on our dealer partners’ stock. The form aims to help customers gain finance approval before they walk into the dealer’s forecourt.
Positive dealer experience
Independent research conducted earlier this year to better understand our dealer partners’ expectations of a finance provider was highly positive and informative. It emphasised the value of our personalised approach, flexibility in the application process and higher approval rates compared to the broader market.
Above all was the speed at which finance applications were approved. As one dealer put it: “Close Brothers Motor Finance stands out on flexibility, unique offerings, likelihood to approve finance requests, proactive and helpful staff and strong customer service.”
When you are in the market for your next vehicle and considering a finance solution, look for Close Brothers Motor Finance.
Known as the motor finance people, we are committed to making your finance experience easy.
Why workplace connection matters for better wellbeing and team success
Building connections with others is vital for wellbeing, enhancing happiness and creating a sense of belonging in both life and work.
Connections give us a sense of community, counteracting loneliness and reminding us that we are part of something larger. Connections at work are equally important: they provide a foundation for trust, collaboration and personal growth. These relationships inspire us to grow and see things from new perspectives, which enhances our emotional and mental resilience.
Trust enhances wellbeing and teamwork
Connecting with colleagues at work can have a powerful impact on both personal wellbeing and professional success. Trusting work relationships allow us to tackle misunderstandings diplomatically, address challenges constructively and contribute to a more positive work environment. When trust exists, communication becomes more open, and team members feel safe in sharing ideas, giving feedback and supporting one another. This openness improves team performance, as people are more willing to share knowledge and experiences, ultimately driving both individual and collective growth.
Enhancing job satisfaction
A connected workplace also boosts job satisfaction. Supportive colleagues make the workday more enjoyable, reducing stress and increasing engagement. When employees feel they belong, they are more committed, motivated and invested in their team’s goals. A team that feels connected will likely achieve better results because they are working from a place of mutual respect and trust, contributing to a culture of innovation and shared success.
Three tips for building connections
To foster connection at work, try these three simple tips. First, engage in small talk in common areas or arrive at meetings a few minutes early to spark conversation. Even quick exchanges strengthen camaraderie. Second, give others the space to share insights in team meetings, which encourages trust and shows you listen. Check in with people and ask them how their day has been. Lastly, celebrate both big and small wins by organising regular coffee breaks, shared lunches or virtual gatherings. Bring your team together to have a morning coffee or organise a fundraiser for organisations like Mental Health Ireland. By building stronger connections, you can cultivate a more supportive, innovative and fulfilling workplace.
Marie Duffy PR and Communications Officer, Mental Health Ireland