ONE of the UK’s fastest-growing internet service providers has introduced a package of measures to help staff through the cost of living crisis.

Fareham-based Giganet gave a cost-of-living payments to all staff except executives earlier this year.

It recently held wellbeing days at which there were financial planning and health workshops, nutrition workshops and individual health checks for all staff who wanted them.

Since December 1, the business has been committed to paying the independently-set Real Living Wage, lifting salaries in customer service and junior roles. All staff have also received a £150 shopping voucher as a Christmas bonus and there have been festive gatherings in Fareham and Reading.

The company’s work to champion diversity, equality training and development earned it the Employer of the Year title at the South Coast Tech Awards earlier this year.

Rachel Hedges, head of people and culture at Giganet, said: “Wellbeing is a big part of working life at Giganet. We take employee wellbeing seriously, especially after what has been such a challenging few years for most.

“When it comes to mental and physical health, Christmas can often be the straw that breaks the camel’s back due to the inevitable financial and personal pressures, aside from the fact it’s also a shorter working month for most, which can increase workload and stress.

“At Giganet, we’re proud to offer our people support in all aspects of life. It has been great to see these workshops and one-to-ones received so well by the team, and of course financial incentives will always be appreciated as we all feel our household budgets squeezed. We also make sure we offer all year-round support, such as holding regular wellbeing forums, funding mental health first aid training and encouraging flexible working.

“When we look after our people, the results can be powerful.”

Darren Barber, survey manager at Giganet, took advantage of the one-to-one health check last month.

He said: “For me, these health check-ins have been invaluable. I was alerted to the fact that I may have type two diabetes and that I should see a doctor, I booked an appointment, and it was confirmed. This is something I would never have considered had it not been facilitated through Giganet.

“Financial support, not just in bonuses but also coaching on how to save and spend, has been truly helpful, especially as we enter the most expensive time of the year.”

Giganet is growing and looking to expand its staff team following an injection of £250million from investment firm Fern Trading last year.