More than a 'nice-to-have'

Chris Whiting, Head of Human Resources at Cairn Group, shared the company’s perspective on implementing Wagestream’s financial wellbeing platform. This innovative approach reflects a growing recognition of the importance of financial wellbeing alongside mental health and wellbeing.

"Financial wellbeing is about empowering employees to not only understand and have the opportunity to educate themselves more about money but also empowering them to have access to that money at times when they need it."

Chris highlighted the challenges of traditional payroll systems, particularly when employees transition between jobs, which can lead to long waits for their first payment. Wagestream addresses this issue by providing flexible access to earned wages, which has been used responsibly by their staff.

"Many employers probably have apprehension when it comes to launching something like Wagestream... but it provides some really great tools around financial coaching, the ability to build some money that they can set aside."

The platform has had tangible benefits for employees, with many using it for essentials like groceries. Chris noted that the average stream per month is around £65, demonstrating that the tool is being used thoughtfully and to meet genuine needs.

"The thing that people are gaining access to their money for the most is actually groceries from recollection."

Additionally, Wagestream has empowered employees to plan their shifts more effectively, increasing transparency around earnings. This has led to higher job satisfaction and better financial planning among staff.

"It actually gives people the empowerment to decide, okay, well actually I could do with doing an extra shift this week."

Chris also shared examples of how the platform has made a meaningful difference, such as enabling employees to stream funds for transportation to work, avoiding high-cost alternatives like overdrafts.

"They've been able to stream that money to get to work at a cost which is heavily reduced compared to an overdraft."

In conclusion, Chris emphasised that financial wellbeing is no longer a ‘nice to have’ but a critical component of HR strategy, urging other practitioners to bring it to the forefront of their focus.