In January 2006, the Trust achieved IWL Practice Plus Status - this means that, following a comprehensive validation process, the Trust demonstrated that it has made significant progress in the following areas:

• HR Strategy and Management
• Staff Involvement and Communication
• Equality and Diversity
• Flexible Working
• Healthy Workplace
• Training and Development
• Flexible Retirement, Childcare Support and Support for Carers

Areas cited as good practice included:

• Excellent integration of contracted staff into the organisation
• Opportunities for staff to engage at open forums with Directors
• Excellent occupational health and pensions advice
• Opportunities for training and development

The Trust recognises the importance of continuing to improve the working lives of staff. To this end, the Trust's IWL working group continues to meet regularly and champions new developments to support staff in their achievement of a healthy work/life balance.