Three Valleys Water has issued staff with paper total reward statements as the first step towards implementing a flexible benefits scheme later this year.

The company hopes the move will increase recruitment and retention levels by reminding staff of the value of the benefits that are available, including bonuses, holidays, cars and healthcare. The firm also matches employee contributions to its defined contribution scheme at double the rate up to a maximum of 12%.

Keith Luxon, director of human resources for Viola Water UK, parent company of Three Valleys Water, said: "We see call-centre employees tempted by other local companies that offer a tiny bit higher hourly rate. We simply want to help people understand their benefits and their total reward package. We want to hit home that they are getting a very good deal here."

Luxon also suggested that, depending on how well the total reward statements are received, the firm will consider implementing a flexible benefits programme later in the year.

The total reward statements, provided by Jelf Group, were issued at the end of May and were sent out in paper form because many employees are field based and do not have access to computers at work.