To approve the introduction of an annual leave trading scheme for Herefordshire Council employees. The scheme would be trialled for six months during the 2022 annual leave year and would initially allow employees to request to purchase up to 3 days’ additional leave (pro-rata for part time employees) during the trial period, subject to their line manager’s approval.

The proposed annual leave purchase scheme would promote employee wellbeing whilst also positively contributing to employee recruitment and retention which, given the evidenced link to organisational performance, should in turn lead to better outcomes for residents and communities.

That:

(a)    the annual leave trading scheme for Herefordshire Council employees be approved, with the trial period launching 7th September 2022.

1. The scheme is not introduced, which is not recommended due to the disadvantages listed in the report and missed opportunities the scheme provides.