subject: What Do Employee Benefits Schemes Have To Offer My Business? [print this page] Flexible benefits schemes are a valuable method of maintaining productivity and a happy workforce in businesses of all shapes and sizes. Any rewards or incentives will help to motivate your employees but a flexible benefits scheme allows the employee to take control of their benefits and demonstrates your understanding that employee needs can vary greatly. Choosing such a scheme also means that your employees will feel that they have been personally rewarded and recognised for their efforts.
There are a variety of flexible benefits schemes you could trial in your business. In some instances it may be useful to have more than one option available so that your employees have a greater choice when selecting a scheme. Generally a benefits scheme is easy to implement and administer although it is often helpful to seek advice from a professional benefits scheme company who can help you decide which approach is best suited to your business and even offer a service to take care of the logistics when implementing your scheme. This means you can rest assured your scheme will be successful.
A popular benefits scheme is the Cycle to Work scheme that is supported by the Government and enables employees to lease a bike from their employer and then optionally purchase it at the end of the lease period. The employee benefits from owning a bike that will see overall savings of up to 52% whilst offering a healthy and low cost transport option for commuting to work. The employer can save on National Insurance contributions, claim against capital allowances and promote a positive image for their company. Whatever the nature of your business you can benefit from the Cycle to Work scheme.
Another option is a scheme for childcare vouchers. Providing for a family can be difficult especially as we are expected to work harder than ever to cover the increasing cost of basic living. Your employees that are parents could save around 1000 per year with a child care benefit scheme, whilst helping you retain a happy workforce. The scheme includes childcare services such as childminders, after school clubs, playgroups and crches.
Some of your employees may have other family commitments if, for example, they are a carer. Carer Break Vouchers can be obtained from your Local Authority and could offer your employee a much needed break from caring outside of work hours. The scheme includes a wide range of people who require substantial care and support including children with disabilities and the elderly.
