Oracle launches voluntary benefits

Oracle has launched a voluntary benefits scheme for its UK employees to help them maximise their disposable income.

Speaking at the keynote address on 25 September at Employee Benefits Live, Michelle Connolly, compensation and benefits director at Oracle, said: “We can’t change the economic environment, we can’t necessarily change the pay budgets we are actually given, but what we can do is give employees a sneaky pay rise by giving them discounts on items they are purchasing.”

The scheme provides employees with discounts, reloadable cards and vouchers. It is also available for employees’ family and friends free of charge.

Oracle has also included the launch of a concierge service for employees, where they can call up for help with shopping, finding a venue for an event or purchasing tickets.

Connolly said that the idea behind the service was to help employees manage their time rather than having to spend it searching online in the evenings or even during work hours.

The organisation has also refreshed its benefits website and extended its benefits fairs from three locations to eight. A teaser campaign to build interest in the fairs will be running from the end of September.

Connolly added that the next steps for Oracle include the introduction of emergency back-up care for all ages, from children to older dependants. It is looking into introducing a financial awareness programme to help employees with their current and future income.