What is Employer-supported volunteering (ESV)?
ESV is where an organisation’s employees take paid time off to volunteer during work hours. They can choose to use this time to support a charity or community group of their own choice, or to take up an opportunity provided by their company. You decide on how your business would like to manage ESV and implement a policy to suit.
Why would your business benefit from ESV?
Employee volunteering demonstrates the company’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. It enhances the company’s reputation and brand image, showing that it is a responsible business which goes beyond profit-making to make a positive impact on society. You can build ESV into your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Policy.
Volunteering opportunities can boost employee engagement and morale. When employees are given the chance to contribute to causes they care about, they feel a sense of purpose, pride, and fulfillment. Engaged employees are more committed, motivated, and productive in their work.
Volunteering activities provide opportunities for employees to collaborate outside of their usual work roles. Working together towards a common goal fosters teamwork, strengthens relationships, and improves communication and collaboration skills among employees.
Employee will have the opportunity to gain new skills, developing leadership, project management, problem-solving, and communication skills through their participation in volunteer activities. These enhanced skills can be applied to their work responsibilities, benefiting the company.
Companies that prioritise CSR and offer employee volunteering programs are attractive to prospective employees. Younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Z, value companies that are socially responsible and have a positive impact. A robust volunteering program can also help retain existing talent by providing meaningful engagement opportunities.
Volunteering has been linked to improved mental health and overall well-being. When employees have opportunities to give back and make a difference, it can boost their happiness, job satisfaction, and work-life balance. A workforce that is mentally and emotionally well is more likely to be productive and engaged.
If you would like assistance writing a CSR or ESV policy or implementing a CSR programme, please contact us now.Does