Willis Towers Watson has launched an internal programme aimed at supporting staff in need and engendering a culture of respect in the workplace.

The Respect at Work programme will see the broker establish a network of appointed staff or ‘guardians’, who will receive specialist external training, enabling them to offer informal support and guidance for colleagues who want to share and discuss any workplace concerns they have, outside of their formal reporting line.

Specifically the guardians will provide an additional support route for colleagues who witness or experience unlawful harassment, discrimination or inappropriate conduct; and a “friendly face” with whom to engage, impartially. It will also provide an opportunity to discuss options to empower colleagues to tackle the matter themselves, or explore avenues for additional support.

Head of Great Britain at the broker, Nicolas Aubert said Willis was taking these very important steps to promote and embed respect in every part of the business.
“In the UK we have worked hard to make sure that our working culture is inclusive throughout the business. This has been recognised by the Stonewall Index, listing the 500 most inclusive places to work in the UK, where Willis Towers Watson has risen 89 places and into the Top 150 this year.

“Respect at work is important for all businesses, particularly in the professional and financial services sectors. We must demonstrate leadership in driving improvements in culture, ensure the quality of conduct and behaviour within our organisations, and provide clarity of purpose to drive value for clients. If we are to retain and attract the kind of talent we need, then it is vital that people know that they can work and thrive in a culture of inclusiveness and respect.”

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