Staff Benefits

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When you work for the Students’ Union you join a vibrant and diverse community which is open and friendly with a welcoming face for all.

Most of our staff are located at the Highfield campus of the University of Southampton where we enjoy attractive grounds and gardens which even offer the joy of ducklings in the springtime! We also have staff located at the Winchester campus who benefit from the beautiful park next door and working close to the city centre.

We are delighted to be able to offer a number of benefits to our staff over and above their monthly remuneration.

Holiday

We have a very generous annual leave entitlement of 24 days or 30 days (pro rata for part-time/part year employees) dependent on role. In addition, all bank holidays (8) and closure days (6) around Christmas and Easter. You can also buy some extra leave every year, too!

Pension

We are committed to our employee’s financial security now and in retirement, offering a generous pension scheme (SUSURF). We as an employer contribute 10% (for permanent roles) and employees have flexibility on how much they would like to contribute (0% - 6%). For our fixed term roles, we offer NEST Pension scheme.

Salary Sacrifice Scheme

Staff can use our salary sacrifice scheme to reduce costs on the following: Pension (after 3 months service) Cycle to Work Scheme (in accordance with eligibility criteria)

Flexible Working

We work from Highfield (Southampton) or Winchester Campus three or four days a week. We’re open to chatting about what would suit you, as long as it works for you, your team, and the wider organisation

Organisational get togethers

The whole organisation gets together termly to share organisational updates and give out our Union Star awards, and we have an end of year Festive party with other socials throughout the year.

SUSU Interest Free Loan

We understand there can be unexpected costs, or you may want to start a savings account, whatever your situation, SUSU offers an interest free loan scheme of up to £750 to be repaid over 12 months (eligibility criteria apply).

Volunteering

We offer the opportunity for you to trade in one day of annual leave to receive two days’ paid time off to volunteer in the community.

Employee Assistance Programme

We’ve partnered with Spectrum Life, a great helpline available 24/7 for you and any immediate family who need a chat. Whether you’re having a challenge with family life, finances, health or feeling run down, they can be a listening ear.

Keeping Healthy

If you need an eye test, or glasses then you are able to claim some of the costs back from SUSU (up to £80). You can also have access to the University Sport and Wellbeing Centre for a discounted monthly price. As an employee you can enrol yourself and immediate family to Benenden Health, which comes with instant access to resources and medical services.

Travel

We can provide you with a loan for a number of Unilink bus passes which is paid back in monthly instalments. We also offer a Cycle to Work scheme, where you can choose a bike up to the value of £3000. You pay nothing upfront with remaining balance deducted over an agreed period and you can own the bike for a fraction of its original price (eligibility criteria apply).

Development

We are dedicated to our employees professional growth and development and offer you free LinkedIn Learning access (over 21,000 courses in 24 languages saving you £30 a month). Additionally, you can join our Charity Mentoring Network (with professionals from over 50 charities). Connect with like-minded individuals to support your professional growth.

In addition to the benefits offered by the Students’ Union, our staff are also eligible for benefits provided by the University of Southampton. Please click on the areas below to find out more.