"Traditionally, wellbeing is about supporting employees who are out of action, for example, due to illness," says Iris. "But there’s so much more to wellbeing! You can provide support in various ways to ensure your people become stronger and feel good about themselves. That’s exactly what we focus on. Through a holistic approach, we nourish health and wellbeing within VodafoneZiggo, aiming for an organisation filled with thriving individuals."
"From the day you join VodafoneZiggo, you have access to our Health & Wellbeing programme," Iris continues. "You can go directly to the Health & Wellbeing team, or use an internal site packed full of helpful information and resources for dealing with challenges, or if you just want to get fitter – more on that later. In addition, you can receive support from coaches, psychologists, buddies, preventive consultation hours with the company doctor, or work on your wellbeing through our unlimited learning platform."
"While our employees can make use of all these resources and people, Health & Wellbeing is also actively making broad improvements within our organisation. We identify causes of absenteeism in the workplace and devise appropriate solutions. For instance, colleagues working night shifts now receive coaching to maintain a healthy rhythm. And we continue to work on vital leadership, so that our people leaders know how to keep employees healthy and empowered. This helps prevent absenteeism."
Mental and physical
VodafoneZiggo's Wellbeing policy is supported by four pillars, Iris explains. "These cover all aspects of wellbeing." The first two pillars are Mental fitness and Physical fitness. “VodafoneZiggo offers more than you might think in both areas. For mental health, the options include a quick Mental Check-Up, mindfulness sessions and psychological coaching. Or you can join the 90-day programme to boost your resilience.”
If you want to get physically stronger, you're spoiled for choice. "There are various sports activities available and you could, for example, participate in a step challenge." It’s also a good idea to work on your physical condition at work. "Professional instructional videos help you keep your body in shape at work, whether you’re at your computer or at the wheel of a Ziggo van. All our technicians had the opportunity to undergo a personal vitality check this year, followed by support to get healthier or stay fit."
The third pillar is Social fitness, which means feeling good and having strong relationships with colleagues at VodafoneZiggo. "Our Culture Crew was created specifically to foster the ideal culture for everyone who works with us. We also host numerous social events, such as cooking sessions to learn about other cuisines and cultures. At the People Planet Progress festival, we underline our mission to make a positive impact with everything we do. That also fosters camaraderie. And it enhances job satisfaction when you realise you’re taking social responsibility and contributing to society. After all, we are part of an important vital sector in the Netherlands."
The fourth pillar is Financial fitness, as money worries can significantly disrupt your life and even lead to physical complaints. A financial coach can therefore make a big difference. "We also offer various documents to help you manage financial concerns or major changes in your life. And, of course, it’s always better to prevent financial problems than to cure them. You can learn how during various webinars."
Never out of action
VodafoneZiggo's holistic Wellbeing Policy accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, Iris recalls. "The extreme situation forced us to think outside the box in all kinds of ways and thoroughly revamp our approach." Since then, much has been achieved and we’ve received considerable appreciation from employees. But it remains a work in progress, she assures. "This is something you can continue to refine, and that’s certainly what we intend to do. It’s never really finished." There is a very ambitious goal on the horizon, Iris adds. "We ultimately aim to ensure that none of our people are out of action due to work."