Blaenau Gwent County Council saw the Financial Services Authority's 'Making the most of your money' seminars as a useful benefit to offer staff at a time when many were feeling the pinch financially.
Julie Morgan, HR manager at the Welsh council, says: "We felt it was a good employee benefit and something that could have a positive impact on employee wellbeing, particularly in these difficult economic times."
The council liked the fact that the course was free and offered impartial advice and support material to help employees to make decisions.
The sessions also highlight the value of the benefits provided by the council, for example, pointing out to members of the pension scheme that they receive life cover and can save money by not duplicating cover privately.
"At the end of the session, they run through the benefits staff receive as employees of the authority," says Morgan. "People do not always think of the benefits they already have, so the sessions raise awareness, which is an advantage for us as an employer."Peta
