Managers' Conference - Team Talk

Payroll GivingCo-operative Flexible Benefits (formerly Co-operative Employee Benefits) has addedanother string to its bow after launching its Payroll Giving Benefit, making us the firstco-operative to offer such a service. Payroll Giving allows donors to make regular orone-off donations to charities of their choice directly from their earnings, company orpersonal pension. Donations are taken from salary or pension earnings before Income Taxis deducted. This means that donors are given tax relief on their donation immediately - andat their highest rate of tax. This, as well as all the other Flexible Benefits, is available tocolleagues. So, if you’re interested in giving to a good cause directly from your pay, or if youwould like more information, visit www.employeebenefits.coop or call 0800 458 7929.A perfect score for EnergyCo-operative Energy has achieved a perfect score for its renewable energy mix. Ofthe electricity provided to our customers in the year ending March 2012, 100% wassourced from renewable generators, such as wind, hydro and biomass. The 100%achievement has been reached in the business’ first year of operation.In achieving the wholly renewable fuel mix our Energy business, which launched in May2011, has exceeded its low carbon target, namely to supply electricity containing lessthan half the national average of carbon by April 2012.With honoursChief Executive, Ben Reid, has been presented with an honorary degree by the University of Wolverhampton for championing socialenterprise in the region. Ben has become a Doctor of Letters, and was bestowed with thehonour at the university’s congregation at The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, in September.The honour was presented by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Geoff Layer. ProfLayer said, “We are proud to award honorary degrees to people like Ben Reid who havemade an outstanding contribution to their field of expertise. As people who have striven toreach the pinnacle of their profession, they offer inspiration to our graduates as they collecttheir own awards throughout graduation.” As well as being awarded this honorary degree,Ben was also earlier this year shortlisted in the Midlands Entrepreneur of the Year awards.Co-operating co-operativesOur Pharmacy business now offers malaria prevention medication over-the-counter in selected pharmacies, previously only availableon prescription from GPs. This has also been a great opportunity to create a link between our Pharmacy and Travel businesses. Whena customer books a holiday through one of our Travel branches located near a pharmacy that offers the service, specially trained travelagents can now advise them on what sort of malaria medication they may need and point them in the direction of a Co-operativePharmacy. Our Pharmacy Group has also been looking at ways in which they could work alongside other Midcounties’ businesses,such as Childcare and Co-operative Flexible Benefits – so watch this space!Team Talk 19