The Anglican Diocese of Leeds has been named one of the top ten charities in the country to work for, according to Best Companies.
The diocese has been named the sixth best charity to work for in the UK, as well as the 14th best company to work for in Yorkshire and the Humber, and the 21st best small company to work for in the UK.
Best Companies is a body that works to measure workplace engagement across a wide variety of organisations around the world, helping workplaces to learn about themselves and compare with other organisations.
Through their engagement survey and other work, the diocese was found to have an excellent approach to many areas including staff growth, wellbeing and having a strong organisational social conscience.
Jonathan Wood, Diocesan Secretary and Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that this award confirms what all who work here already know, the Diocese of Leeds is a great place to work!
“Being number six in the country is testament to the efforts of a fantastic team here.”
Positive factors highlighted included the flexible working policy the diocese has in place, which allows staff to work both in our office in central Leeds and at home, with facilities for in person, online and hybrid working.
Several staff groups allow for the diocese to look after employees, with a Social Group to plan and host activities throughout the year, and a Staff Engagement Forum to maintain strong communication between all in the organisation.
The care for the wellbeing of staff was highlighted, with staff having access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and a 24-hour confidential phone line to discuss any issues they are facing, as well as Mental Health First Aiders to support staff in that area.
The organisation’s appraisals process was also praised, involving a mid-year meeting with every employee as well as an annual review to assess progress and create a personalised learning plan incorporating a variety of training programmes.
Other factors emphasised by Best Companies included family-friendly working hours, good maternity provision, the fact that over 40% of senior managers are women, and a good pension scheme.
All these factors and more have officially made the Diocese of Leeds an Outstanding Company to work for.