Issue - meetings

The Head of HR Shared Service introduced the report and outlined the progress made against the Workforce Strategy themes, particularly ‘organisation culture and change’. The updated action plan was shown in Appendix 1 to the report.

Staff training programmes continued to be delivered, both virtually and in-person, on topics such as mental health, safeguarding and wellbeing. A Hybrid Policy had been introduced jointly with Swale Borough Council. A total of 111 recruitment campaigns had taken place across 2021, with several Senior Officer positions currently being advertised.

In response to questions, the Head of HR Shared Service confirmed that apprentices were encouraged to remain employed with the Council when possible. The days lost to Mental Health had reduced significantly from 2019/20 and the supporting facilities available to staff, including trained Mental Health First Aiders, were outlined.

The Committee expressed support for the work undertaken and the sustained reduction in days lost to mental health issues.

RESOLVED: That the report be noted.