Wayne Page is Group Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Brit Insurance and will be speaking virtually as part of our panel discussion on diversity, inclusion and equity on day two of the Wellbeing at Work UK Summit on 20-22 September and we wanted to get his thoughts before he takes to the virtual stage.
We are thrilled that you will be speaking at our Wellbeing at Work UK Summit in September. Our first and most important question is, how are you doing today?
I’m doing great thanks, it’s been a full-on summer but I’m glad I’ve had some off to relax and re-energise for the rest of the year!
As a leader based in the region, what are the main challenges your you are facing when it comes to employee wellbeing?
I’d say still the return to work after COVID and the adjustments around that remain a priority. Plus now of course, the cost of living crisis has taken over as main concern for employees wellbeing.
What strategies have you seen developing in the UK over the past 6-12 months post pandemic to address health and wellbeing in the workplace?
People adjusting to working from home and flexible working has taken some getting used to. You have to strike the balance between keeping people engaged and giving them freedom to work in an agile way. Strategies around this include having different types of events, at different times, and having a variety of interactions so colleagues can chose what to participate in without feeling overwhelmed, or ignored.
Why is employee wellbeing so important to you personally?
Wellbeing and inclusion go hand in hand for me. If you’re asking people to bring their whole selves to work, then their wellbeing has to be a priority.
What are you most looking forward to about the Summit in September?
Hearing what others are doing in this space, to endure Brit remain at the forefront of top employers.
Tell us, what is your vision for the workplace of the future, in terms of employee engagement, health and wellbeing?
For me, I would say an open and authentic workplace is my vision. Where colleagues can talk openly about what concerns them, or what’s important to them, and feel comfortable when doing so.
What areas do you think employers should be focused on over the next 12-18 months?
I think employee engagement, with an intersectional cut across all areas of inclusion and diversity.
How has your organisation been leading the way?
Brit have been leading the way for some time now, in being an inclusive employer. We have many progressive HR policies, which set the tone of our culture, plus senior sponsorship and engagement. Our employees feel valued and respected, which comes through on our employee engagement scores.
Join us at the Wellbeing at Work UK Summit between 20-22 September 2022 in London, Manchester and virtually and hear from Wayne and over 60 expert speakers from across the world. Further details here.
