'We want our people to feel ready to step into parenthood'
Suncorp New Zealand is offering a new financial wellness course as part of its expanded parental leave benefits for employees who are expecting a child.
The Financial Baby Prep Programme, which will be held online, aims to help employees make informed financial decisions as they begin a family.
"We want our people to feel ready to step into parenthood and this course will give them the tools and resources needed to create a solid financial foundation for their growing whānau," said Catherine Dixon, Suncorp New Zealand Executive General Manager for People and Culture, in a statement.
Extending financial knowledge to employees
Under the course, participating employees will receive knowledge on a wide range of topics including:
- Estimating how a family's income will change during parental leave
- Budgeting for baby-related expenses
- Managing family finances for both short-term and long-term goals
"Caring for others is one of the values at Suncorp New Zealand and we are committed to supporting our people during this time," Dixon said.
Annabelle Thompson, Tribe Lead - Digital Connectivity for Suncorp New Zealand, praised the programme as she expects her first child this year.
"There are costs that are indirectly related to having a child which aren't obvious in the beginning, so it's been great to be able to cover these with my husband able to join too."
Employee wellbeing a priority
Suncorp's latest financial wellness course is part of its expanded parental leave benefits.
"We really pride ourselves on fostering overall wellbeing, both in the workplace and at home," Dixon said.
Previously, the insurance provider introduced six weeks of paid Gender Affirmation Leave and up to 12 months of unpaid leave.
"Providing this leave entitlement is the best way that we can offer support with what is often a complex process for people which can involve a variety of different steps over a period of time," Dixon previously said.
