The Brentwood-based label printer gained the accreditation on 9 December after just one year working with Essex Working Well (EWW), an organisation that provides free health and wellbeing advice to businesses in the county.
Businesses are normally expected to reach Level Three in their second or third year of working within EWW’s programme.
Baker Labels’ quick progress has been down to a consistent employee-first approach, which has seen the company win accolades like 2020 Essex Employer of the Year and 2021 Brentwood Employer of the Year.
“It may sound like a cliché, but our staff genuinely are our greatest assets,” said Steve Baker, managing director.
The decision to obtain formal accreditation came after the family-run business had grown in recent years to more than 100 employees, and realised it needed a more structured approach to employee wellbeing.
“We have spent millions over the last five decades on print equipment and technologies, in addition to their regular maintenance and care. Having a health and wellbeing programme is almost like a maintenance and care package for staff.
“We need our operators to not only have had the best training but also to be in good mental and physical condition. Great presses can take you so far with label production, but a great team makes us who we are.”
The programme requires companies to build a wellbeing strategy, and show evidence of ongoing activities to fulfil it.
Businesses likewise need to show evidence of - among other things - internal and external wellbeing support, staff training, green initiatives, and support to charities or good causes.
Clare Coles, Baker Labels’ HR manager, said: “It has been extremely valuable to be part of the Essex Working Well programme. We now have six trained Mental Health First Aiders, a team of Workplace Health Champions and a structure that supports training, growth, health and wellbeing.
“Recruitment of new staff to Bakers is made easier because we attract a high calibre of applicants, often recommended by those already working here.
“What better recognition is there than that Bakers is a great place to work?”
