Unemployment levels and the cost of living increases have increased in the last quarter, placing further hardship on families and individuals. Employers can help by identifying and supporting those in need, as well as signposting staff to the right places for help and information.
For those who find themselves in need, their first port of call could be the BOSS Business Supplies Charity. Someone may require a one-off grant for an unexpected large bill, or longer-term support, like a quarterly grant to help them get on top of their finances. To apply is easy, and completely confidential. The criteria for applicants is that they have worked for at least two years within the industry and can demonstrate a genuine financial need. You can download the BOSS Charity’s poster for your staff noticeboard.
Signposts to other forms of help include:
- There is a new mortgage support scheme that has been introduced by the government.
- In the run up to Christmas, there is more pressure than ever on families, with the cost of buying presents. It may be worth offering some company-wide initiatives to help.
- Consider setting up a children’s toy/clothes exchange scheme. It’s great for the environment and people can bring in their good quality, but outgrown/unwanted toys and clothes and swap them for others that are more suited to their child`s age. Any excess can be donated to local charities.
- Offering a salary sacrifice scheme for childcare, one of a parent’s biggest outgoings in the early years, can be a huge benefit.
- Encouraging a shared childcare or jobshare scheme for parents can keep your workforce motivated and help share their childcare needs with their colleagues.
If you’ve got any tips or advice to share, do please send them to info@bosscharity.org.