Derbyshire County Council is one of the best places to work in the public sector — according to a national newspaper.
In the Sunday Times list of best places to work in the public sector 2010, the council came in at number 58.
The report found that the average age of a county council employee is 46, with a male/female ratio of 24:76, and a staff turnover of six per cent.
Almost one in three of the workforce has been in the job for more than 15 years, which is a good sign for the council.
Council leader, Andrew Lewer said it was ‘good news’ and shows the council’s commitment towards values.
He said: “I know that every one has days when they don’t want to be at work, but it really is a nice place for people to work.”
The council’s cabinet member for finance and management, councillor John Harrison, said: “We’re pleased with the results of the survey. We’re a good responsible employer and we value the hard work and commitment of our employees who deliver services for local people.”
The Sunday Times found that 13,000 employees have the option of staggered hours, home working, job sharing, term-time-only contracts, sabbaticals and reduced work time.
Each worker is entitled to 21 days holiday a year, rising to 30 depending on length of service. In addition to public holidays, the workforce also has four extra concessionary days.
Council staff have access to independent counselling, legal and financial advisory services, free physiotherapy, childcare vouchers and healthy lifestyle promotions, such as subsided gym membership.
According to a survey, 63 per cent of employees say that pressure of work does not harm concentration and again 63 per cent said they were happy with their work life and home life balance.
Richard Caseby, managing editor of The Sunday Times said: “The present economic climate could easily have been used as an excuse not to take part, yet more than 200 organisations competed for a place on this list and the views of 45,000 employees have been canvassed, making it by far the most detailed survey of its kind.”
