Gwynedd Council has retained its gold standard in the National Health Quality Framework - the national guide as set out by the Welsh Government to promote and improve health and well-being in the workplace.

The framework recognises good practice with regard to the health and wellbeing of staff and targets issues around preventable disorders, to ensure that staff are in the best place to continue to deliver key services to the people of the county.

Gwynedd Council was awarded the gold standard for the first time back in 2011 and the organisation has held the standard consistently since then.

In this year’s review, the assessors recognised in particular the way in which the council has adapted and retained the health and well-being provision for staff throughout the pandemic ensuring that support is still available despite the different working conditions.

Revalidating the Gold Standard for the council, assessor Bryn Jones said: “I recognise and appreciate that an organisation such as a local authority has been under considerable stress over the last twelve months and that this has had implications for the wellbeing of your employees.

“Even in these difficult times... [Gwynedd Council] has continued to maintain its health and wellbeing provision, as well as develop and introduce new initiatives.”