Voluntary and community sector leads the way with family friendly benefits and a motivated workforce

Voluntary and community sector employers look after the welfare of their employees by offering above average maternity pay, sickness pay and annual leave. With women (73%) and young people aged 31-40 (27%) making up a large portion of the workforce it’s no surprise that this progressive, family friendly approach leads to high levels of staff retention and a motivated workforce.

Studies have shown that many voluntary and community sector workers joined their organisations for the chance to make a difference and in some cases where earnings are slightly less; it’s balanced by increased job satisfaction.

The research also revealed that voluntary and community organisations have responded to the economic downturn by reviewing salary levels and other costs. As a result savings have been made in middle and senior management and administrative costs, while the salaries of service providers such as training and care staff have increased.

Commenting on the report NICVA CEO Seamus McAleavey said:

“Voluntary and community organisations are rightly proud of our talented and motivated workforce.

“Our sector is committed to directing as much of its resources as possible into frontline services so organisations aim to keep administrative and staff costs at an acceptable level.  The sector strives to be a good employer and so it makes sense that where organisations cannot match the salaries offered by the public and private sectors, they make up the difference in other ways.

“Family friendly policies are one way of doing this. However for employees across the sector their job is about more than their pay packet. The satisfaction that comes from working in a sector that really makes a difference to vulnerable people and disadvantaged communities cannot be underestimated.”