General Terms of Employment

WORKING FOR THE NORTHWEST REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

All employees are provided with a comprehensive and attractive pay and benefits package.  The Main Terms and Conditions of Employment relating to positions are:

Salaries and Payment
While the salary range quoted is indicative of effective performance in this role, there may be scope for further progression over time.  This will be subject to performance review.

Salaries are paid monthly by direct debit into a chosen bank or building society account on the 15th day of each month.  Pay awards are based upon individual performance and take effect from 1st July annually.  The Agency also operates a non-contractual annual performance related bonus scheme.  Eligibility criteria apply for pay awards and the bonus scheme.

Hours of Work
The normal working week is 37 hours, excluding lunch breaks.  Employees should take a lunch break of a minimum of half an hour.  Normal offices hours are Monday to Friday, 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Holidays
The annual leave entitlement is 30 days.  In addition, staff are entitled to 8 statutory and recognised public holidays.  The annual leave year runs from 1st July to 30th June each year.  There are also generous provisions for special leave, maternity and paternity leave.

Pension
The NWDA has adopted the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme.  New employees are included in the scheme at the start of their employment, unless they choose to opt out.

Health Screening and Medical
Employees of the NWDA are entitled to health screening facilities in accordance with Agency arrangements.  Staff who are required to use PC monitors and other visual display units (VDUs) on a regular basis will be entitled to claim the cost of an eye test and up to £60 towards the cost of spectacles every two years.

Reimbursement of Professional Fees
Where membership of a professional association is a requirement of the job, fees for membership of those professional associations will be reimbursed.

Smoking
The Agency has adopted a smoke-free environment for all offices as part of its commitment to the health and well-being of its staff.  There are no designated smoking areas in any of the Agency’s offices.

Relocation
If the Agency finds it necessary to relocate an employee closer to his/her work base, the Agency assists in relocation by providing removal costs, legal and other fees connected with the sale and purchase of old and new residences, a lodging allowance and travel costs for moving (subject to an overall limit).  Fuller details of the scheme will be available to shortlisted applicants.

Sickness Absence and Sick Pay
Employees are entitled to receive enhanced sickness benefit, which is linked to length of service.

Maternity Benefit
There is an enhanced maternity benefit scheme available.

Lease Car
If you are going to travel over 3000 miles per annum for the purpose of your position, you will be entitled to lease car provision. The type of car you will be provided depends on the salary band you are appointed on.