IVC Evidensia supports its employees with physically demanding jobs through a range of benefits designed to aid their wellbeing.
The veterinary care group operates across 20 countries, has more than 900 veterinary practices and around 15,000 employees in the UK. Its employees that carry out the most physically demanding jobs are farm vets and nurses across more than 10,000 UK farms.
It recognises that while farm veterinary work is rewarding, it is also physically demanding, with tasks including lifting and handling animals, responding to emergencies, and long days working outdoors in all weathers. Supporting its farm veterinary teams to stay healthy, safe and fulfilled in their work is one of its main priorities.
The benefits and support that the employer offers include ensuring employees have access to the right training and equipment for their role, and a dedicated staff care hub, which offers resources and access to support whenever they need it. It also offers physical and mental health advice, discounted gym memberships, and a confidential employee assistance programme available 24/7 every day of the year.
Scott Stowell, people policy and colleague experience manager, explains that IVC Evidensia additionally has wellbeing action plans which encourage wellbeing discussions.
“These can be used to advise all employees, as well as those with more physically demanding jobs, on how to stay well at work, and how managers can support them,” he says. ”We also provide health and safety guidance and training to ensure staff can carry out work as safely and comfortably as possible.”
To further support its employees with physically demanding roles, IVC Evidensia ensures workplace adjustments are made where needed and that everyone takes adequate breaks. All employees also have access to private medical and dental insurance, critical illness cover, and voluntary life assurance.
The group believes it is important to support its employees with physically demanding jobs and continue investing in and supporting their development, because its workforce is core to its values and mission.
Employees across all areas of the organisation are viewed as the cornerstone of the business, because without them, the animals would not be cared for, says Stowell.
“Ensuring employee wellbeing is prioritised is essential, so that they are in the best possible position to provide care for the animals. IVC aims to provide a platform and opportunity for farm vets to build long, rewarding careers and to have influence over the agricultural industry as a whole. It is essential we continue to support all staff across the organisation as best as possible, so that they can continue to provide the best possible care for the animals,” he adds.
