Following on from our successful Collaboration and Integrity months in May and June respectively, we moved our attentions to another of our Naimuri company values; Caring. Here’s a recap on what went on throughout July:
Caring Exploration Session
We ran an exploration session in the style of a Lean Coffee which allowed people to suggest topics to be discussed amongst us all. Topics varied from plants in the office, to charities, to dress code.
One of the outcomes from this session is that we’ve created a Charity/Social page on our internal Hub which will be the place to arrange and discuss upcoming events.
Wellbeing Survey
Everyone at Naimuri was invited to complete a Wellbeing survey. As it’s the first time we’ve undertaken something like this, the aim is to get a baseline of how we’re doing as a company in terms of employee happiness and wellbeing. The results are currently being collated and will hopefully allow us to assess our current position, in order to build on the positives and facilitate improvement, where needed.
Podcast
Olivia, Amelia and Abigail joined us for a week as part of work experience and whilst they were with us they recorded, directed and edited our monthly podcast. Amongst other things, they discussed with the Naimuri Directors: the ways in which we care for each other at Naimuri, the importance of a healthy work/life balance and also why Mind charities are important to us.
Mental Health Awareness
Due to the growing awareness of mental wellbeing and how important it is, we arranged for Mind in Salford run their Mental Health Awareness session for us at Capstan House. It was very well-attended with twenty people participating. Everyone involved noted that it was an eye-opening experience and that it allowed them to gain further understanding of the issues that can affect people mentally day-to-day.
Off the back of this session we have created a Wellbeing@Naimuri group with the aim to help tackle the stigma around Mental Health and allow us to discuss it openly and frankly at Naimuri. We’re hoping to repeat this session in the near future so that those that didn’t attend last time, can do so.
Equality & Diversity Training
As part of Naimuri mandatory training, we enlisted the help of Kirsty Craig Associates to run four equality and diversity training sessions for us throughout one day in July. The interactive training prompted valuable discussions about how to act in the workplace, as well as how to handle difficult situations should they arise.
Value of the Month Award
Congratulations to Marie P. for winning this month’s award!
Caring about others and doing helpful things without hesitating are qualities that we should all aspire to display at work. This month saw the highest number of nominees yet, which only emphasises that Naimuri is full of caring people!
What We Learned
Everyone in this company cares in their own way. There was a high percentage of people that were nominated for the Caring award, showing that a lot of people do nice things and that people are appreciative of what they do for them. It is also obvious, based on seeing and hearing people communicate in the office, that people care for one another.
A Simple Gesture
There are many simple ways to show that you care; for example asking someone if they are ok, offering advice, or showing an interest in their work. One way that we all show interest in each other’s work is at our weekly Show and Tell sessions which everyone is encouraged to attend.
Self Care
As well as caring for others, it’s also crucial to take care of yourself.
The Mind Mental Health Awareness session highlighted the importance of talking about our worries or issues, and we, as a company, try to encourage this as much as possible. The more we talk, the more it becomes easier for everyone to share their problems, no matter how big or small. Sharing any issues and seeking help and advice where needed is a good way to look after ourselves.
Another way that we can look after ourselves both physically and mentally is to take regular breaks. Sometimes a minute away from the screen or some fresh air can be all that’s needed to clear your head!
During August we’ll be focussing on another of our company values: Pride & Passion, so keep a look out for updates on what we’re getting up to.