Schneider Electric has introduced a family benefit scheme for more than 3,500 employees in the UK and Ireland (UK&I) as part of its ambition to become “the most caring and inclusive company in the world”.
From this month (July), the energy management and automation business is offering 26 weeks of fully paid maternity leave and four weeks of paternity leave, which it believes are some of the longest periods available in the engineering and technology space.
According to the company, which has 22 sites across the UK&I, the enhanced provision “reflects a wider policy to provide a more inclusive, stable and supportive environment for employees with inflation driving up household bills and living costs”.
The scheme also includes two weeks of bereavement leave and two weeks of carer leave, both on full pay.
Kelly Becker, zone president UK&I for Schneider Electric, said: “Our ambition is to be the most caring and inclusive company in the world. Our employees need this support most when they’re experiencing some of life’s most challenging moments, from welcoming a new member of the family to caring for loved ones.
“Providing these industry leading benefits differentiates us as an employer of choice at a time when we know employees are appreciating the benefits of flexible work like never before. The introduction of our new family leave approach is another milestone on our journey towards building a culture founded on inclusivity that puts people first.”
“We know that there is a skills gap in our industry. We’re committed to investing in STEM careers through apprenticeships and initiatives like this one, which enable us to create a workplace where people can grow and thrive, whatever their personal circumstances or stage in life.”
The company announced the new scheme as it prepares for its first UK&I Volunteering Day on 14 July, which gives both office-based and operational staff a chance to support biodiversity and environmental projects in their communities.
Becker added: “Just as we reward our employees for contributing to Schneider’s successful business, we also welcome the opportunity to give back to the communities where we operate. That’s why our colleagues are coming together on 14 July to volunteer their time and make an immediate impact in their communities.”
