N Family Club runs a chain of 37 nurseries in London, the home counties and beyond. It employs nearly 1,300 people across these nurseries and in its support team, working with Rest Less to launch an over 50s apprenticeship in 2023 to help it attract a diverse workforce.
As a certified B Corporation, the wellbeing of its employees is a priority and it provides a range of benefits including an employee assistance programme, financial wellbeing apps and mental health first aiders to support them. Louise Scoates, head of people at N Family Club, says: “We want all our team members to feel happy and able to be their authentic selves when they’re at work. We also know that life can be challenging so it’s important that we offer additional support and flexibility when necessary.”
A good example of this is where an employee has eldercare responsibilities. As well as the statutory carer’s leave, they can take up to five days of discretionary leave. “Care needs vary greatly but this could help them arrange a home for an elderly parent or enable them to attend hospital appointments with them," says Scoates. "We also offer a ‘me day’, which gives everyone a day off to recharge and focus on their own wellbeing.”
N Family Club also recognises that having to look after an elderly relative can mean a rethink on work commitments. “Through N-Flex, team members can adjust their hours to help them balance care responsibilities and work. This could be our four-day, 36-hour week, part-time hours or even a flexibank role where they fit work around life. There’s a working pattern to suit everyone,” she adds.
Similarly, as eldercare responsibilities can vary so much, the organisation ensures employees are aware of all the other benefits that might help. These include its flexible pay system, provided by Wagestream; a hardship fund; and its emergency childcare package, which can step in to take care of children if an employee unexpectedly needs to look after an elderly relative or friend.
