Wayne says that safety is an integral part of Galaxy’s culture. The £95m turnover company is now employee-owned, but it already had a long history of close ties with its employees. It emphasises employee well-being, with a health scheme, financial well-being consultancy, and mental health first-aiders. It has invested in defibrillation kits for every depot.
Family commitments, such as sports days, are built into shift patterns or routes wherever possible, and it even allows employees to bring their dogs to the office.
Wayne visits every depot every six weeks to spend time with the staff. He describes an egalitarian business where they try to know everybody’s name, the MD wears exactly the same unform as everyone else, and many of the staff are related. This makes Galaxy’s safety an extension of its culture, says Wayne, because if you care about the individuals, then it is natural to care about their safety.
However, whatever company structure fleets exist within, Wayne would recommend seeking accreditation, as a worthwhile process, bringing greater safety and many other benefits. “Become a more sustainable business, engage and become inclusive with all staff to gain improved employee relations. It’s now part and parcel of who we are.”
