The group has been shortlisted for honours in the NBRA (National Body Repair Association) Greener Bodyshop Awards which shine a spotlight on the most environmentally-conscious and forward-thinking bodyshops in the UK.

iRG has been selected as a finalist in the ‘Bodyshop Staff Wellbeing’ category ahead of the awards being announced at the Coventry Building Society Arena next week (Thursday 18^th September).

From health to money matters, iRG has put in place a wide range of programmes and benefits to assist staff in the workplace as well as their home lives.

Amongst the initiatives available to its 130-strong workforce is an Employee Assistance Programme, a confidential 24/7 service available not only to staff but also their immediate family members who may be facing issues affecting their home life, work, health and general wellbeing. A monthly Health & Wellbeing newsletter is also provided and offers lots of useful information, support and advice including playlists, podcasts, webinars and articles on self-care.

The group is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and improving peer support and has assigned two members of its team as Mental Health First Aiders. They have been trained to provide support to colleagues and recognise signs of mental health issues with a view to signposting to professional help if required.

As well as a private healthcare scheme designed to reimburse staff for everyday healthcare costs, iRG has also introduced an employee engagement platform that provides a range of perks and benefits to enhance workplace culture and employee satisfaction. These range from deals and discounts across many well-known brands for shopping, dining and entertainment to a points-based rewards programme that recognises the efforts of colleagues who go over and above in their daily role. Accessed online or via an app, the system even includes a budget planner to help employees keep track of their money and suggest ways to improve their finances.

“Our employees are our most important asset,” said Claire Jones, iRG Repair Group’s HR Director, “so whilst our initiatives help to strengthen company culture and boost productivity amongst other things, ultimately they are also designed to ensure that our colleagues are happy in their work and in their home life too.

“We believe that the programmes we have put in place are amongst the best and most comprehensive in our sector and are not only a factor in retaining staff but attracting new people to join us. It’s fantastic that we have been recognised by the industry for the way that we look after our team.”