Outsourced communications provider Moneypenny has built an inclusive and supportive workplace culture through its range of clubs, groups, and social activities that help build connection, boost wellbeing, and support staff through life stages.
It employs more than 1,000 people across its UK headquarters in Wrexham, north Wales and its US office in Atlanta, Georgia.
The clubs available to staff include Minipennies, which is a group for new and expectant mums who meet every couple of months at its UK headquarters to catch up; Menopennies, which is an employee-run group that offers peer support, helpful resources, and weekly walking sessions to support those going through the menopause; and an on-site pub in Wrexham called the Dog ‘n’ Bone, intended to be a social hub for themed nights and gatherings after work that bring staff together in a relaxed setting.
Employees can also access an activity cupboard stocked with free-to-use outdoor kit such as kayaks and badminton sets for Wrexham-based employees to borrow and use, as well as office bikes. It also hosts regular on-site Pilates, yoga, boxercise and Zumba sessions to support employees’ physical health in an accessible and fun way.
The organisation also has quiet, comfortable wellbeing rooms in the UK and US used by its on-site counsellors and for meditation sessions and its annual flu jab programme.
Wendy Swash, chief operating officer at Moneypenny, says: “Our US team has recently created an indoor community garden in their office. It was an initiative set up to encourage people to connect and grow their own: there is lettuce, coriander, parsley and more.”
Most of the clubs and activities are fully funded by Moneypenny. Where there is a cost involved, such as with some of the fitness classes, it is either subsidised or free. Participation rates are strong and the employer frequently gets positive feedback on all the clubs, groups, and social activities. It also regularly refreshes its offerings based on employee suggestions.
The clubs are a core part of Moneypenny’s people-first approach and have helped create a workplace where people look out for one another and genuinely enjoy spending time together, says Swash.
“They are all about connection, support and wellbeing. They help people feel part of something and give them ways to take care of themselves and build friendships across the business. These groups help people feel supported, especially around big life events such as becoming a parent with Minipennies or navigating the menopause with Menopennies. We’ve seen time and again how a positive, connected team creates a happier, more productive workplace,” she adds.
