Future’s employees are our most important assets; they are the driving force behind our success as a business.
Developing our people:
In 2011 we ran skills training for our publishing teams, advertising and central support departments. In-house training sessions provide training for editors on commissioning, libel, defamation and copyright, as well as new software applications. We also provide ongoing online training, covering the key disciplines of online content development.
Training needs are identified as part of each employee’s annual performance appraisal. However in 2011, due to the restructuring activities undertaken, the appraisal process was postponed for six months and will now fall in 2012.
Health and safety:
The health and safety of all employees is a key priority for the Group. Future is largely an office-based environment. All companies across the Group comply with relevant legislation and we communicate our health and safety policy to all employees. During the year to 30 September 2011, there were no fatalities; no serious injuries; nine minor injuries in the UK and none in the US.
Policy on disability:
The Company aims to ensure that when considering recruitment, training, career development, promotion or any other aspect of employment, no employee or job applicant is discriminated against, either directly or indirectly, on the grounds of disability. If an employee became disabled while in employment and as a result was unable to perform their duties, we would make every effort to offer suitable alternative employment and assistance with retraining.
Internal communication:
Future has policies on employee communication; acceptable use of IT; health and safety; whistle-blowing and a commitment to diversity and opportunity. Our employees have access to free, confidential, employee well-being helplines.
In addition, we hold meetings for all employees at least annually, and extended leadership team meetings where we discuss the financial performance of the Company and the Group. Future UK also has an Employee Involvement Group, which allows employees to contribute to strategic level decision-making. Future’s lively culture is echoed in our company intranets and via our printed monthly internal magazine which updates employees on industry and business news and celebrates team successes.