That is why the Temporary Works Council has organised a themed afternoon for managers and directors. "First of all to raise awareness. Sometimes you just need to take things slow and first plant a seed. You can't change the world in one day.”
The merger resulted in the integration of the works councils of Smallsteps and Partou. "It turned us into one of the largest works councils in the Netherlands in one fell swoop! But it’s turned out great. We are a team, with people from all sorts of departments, really unique. I feel very at home there.” Cora likes to "poke and prod a bit".
She looks for areas that can be improved, and isn’t shy about voicing her opinions. "We don't always agree with the Board, but we have good discussions. With one goal: how we can make the organisation better. And we do that together!”
In practice
Cora’s scope of responsibility within the Works Council lies in HR and employmentterms. “For example, we are currently working on the harmonisation of the employment terms. If I come across anything that makes me think 'this doesn't make sense', I say so. I always ask myself if it’s workable in practice. And that's what people listen to.”
Constantly evolving
"Childcare is a fascinating sector that is constantly evolving.” Cora has experience as an early years teacher and assistant setting manager. About five years ago she applied for a job at Smallsteps. “It’s hard to imagine now, but there was little work back then. I started out as a substitute teacher.” She is currently the regular face in the toddler group. "If I am on the late shift and I come in at nine a.m., I’m greeted with enthusiastic cheers. Who can say the same thing? It's just wonderful! Every single time," she says, glowing.
Small steps
The Sustainable Development Goals have been part of the strategy for some time now. With a greener car fleet, incentives for carpooling and the personal bicycle purchase plan, Partou has become more sustainable in recent years, Cora notes. “We also have an entire recycling programme for the OSC children. But those are small steps.” During the themed afternoon in May, the members of the Temporary Works Council talked in small groups with various managers and directors about the sustainability goals. "We discussed why they are important. How and where we can take them into account. And what we can show the staff and the children. As pleasant as those conversations were, we did not make any concrete agreements. I see it more as planting a seed. Really good for raising awareness.”
Getting everyone on board
"We shouldn't rush anything. Otherwise you won't get everyone on board. So it's good to do it in steps," Cora concludes. "But we do want to keep taking steps!”
A commitment to care
No matter where Partou is, we strive to make a difference: for children, families, our people, and the planet. Curious about what we do, what we dream of, and the challenges we face?