Rewards and benefits
We believe that people come to work with us for a number of different reasons and that they want to be rewarded in a number of different ways. That’s why we take a holistic approach to reward and offer an integrated and varied package to help motivate all our employees to perform their best.
Pay
Our competitive salaries work on a set scale – with wide bands that allow for progression. We also offer a bonus and annual progression scheme – both performance related. And there’s a London weighting allowance too.
Pensions
New employees have a choice of Civil Service schemes – defined benefit (Nuvos) or money investment (Partnership) schemes. Full details of both schemes can be found at www.civilservice-pensions.gov.uk
Flexible Working
We offer a range of working patterns subject to business need (including part-time and job-sharing). The majority of employees are eligible to participate in our popular Flexible Working Hours scheme.
Holiday
Annual holiday entitlement is 28.5 days’, rising to 32.5 days’ after six years plus bank holidays. Paid and unpaid special leave is available in particular circumstances (such as for further education, volunteering or domestic emergencies).
Childcare
For those paying for childcare you can join a salary sacrifice scheme. Typical savings on full-time childcare costs could be as much as £916 a year.
Health and Wellbeing
All employees have access to independent and confidential counselling and support through our Employee Assistance Programme. We also offer free annual flu inoculations and health screening and pay for regular eye sight tests. Employees can pay to join both CS Healthcare and Benenden healthcare societies – non profit-making organisations which offer healthcare to complement the NHS and an alternative to expensive private medical treatment.
Payroll Giving/Give As You Earn
This is a tax effective way to give to charity from your pre-tax salary. Typically, a donation of £5 a month would only ‘cost’ you £3.90 (less if you are a higher rate taxpayer).
Interest Free Loans
Advances of salary are available for the purchase of a bicycle or a season ticket for travel to work. These loans are tax, national insurance and interest free.
Working Environment
Our offices are modern and comfortable. Each main site has designated ‘quiet areas’ and free refreshments are available. Cycle racks and showers are available and we recycle as much as possible.
Sports & Social
As well as the Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC) (which offers discounted sport and travel, visits to attractions, hotel breaks and free entry to National Trust properties) our own Social Club organises local sport and social activities throughout the year.
Benevolent Funds
Our employees are eligible to access the services of both the Charity Commission and Civil Service Benevolent Funds. Both are charities which help (serving and retired) Civil Servants in times of financial hardship.