Employee forums

For over 50 years we have been running staff consultative bodies. Our latest one is called "the forum".

In a company as big as ours, "the forum" provides an effective way for everyone to be part of the business and have their views listened to, debated and put into action if appropriate. It also gives the directors an understanding of what's happening at the sharp end, informing their decisions and helping change happen. It's inclusive, democratic and held in regard by everyone involved.

We hold forum meetings four times a year. Before the meeting forum representatives talk to the people in their area and bring together their feedback. At the forum meeting representatives receive presentations about current 'hot topics' and are given information to help them answer questions they've received from their constituents all over Boots. They also give Boots directors a presentation known as 'word on the street' about how our people and our customers in Boots are feeling, the things that are concerning them and the ideas they have which is always a topic for lively discussion and debate.

Following these presentations the members agree what should happen next and who should do it. After the meeting the representatives let people in their areas know what has happened.

In addition, forum representatives also work to help resolve local issues with their local management.

Some recent improvements the forum has influenced

• new uniforms for shop colleagues
• increased rates of call-out payment for shop colleagues
• new refund policy