Comradeship spirit at its best across Bank of Valletta

It was a Valentine’s Day with a difference at Bank of Valletta. Make our heart grow bigger is the campaign that was launched across the bank in an effort to encourage BOV employees to contribute towards the BOV Employee Welfare Fund.

Ray Debattista, Executive Human Resources explained: “As one of the largest employers in Malta, the setting up of the Employee Welfare Fund was a natural initiative for us at bank of Valletta. Every year the bank sets aside a lump sum towards this fund, through which we give our support to employees and their dependents undergoing medical treatment in Malta or abroad.”

He went on to explain that every case is evaluated on its own merits by a dedicated committee, headed by Human Resources. Besides contributing financially, employees may also donate hours from their leave entitlement, to assist their colleagues in need. This is an addi- tional buffer to the several policies and health benefits offered by the bank.

The campaign, Make our heart grow bigger, sought to encourage the bank’s workforce, numbering over 1,500, to make a minimum monthly commitment of €1 from their salary towards this fund.

Employees who chose to enrol in this scheme or increase their monthly commitment received a sweet treat for Valentine. Over the past days, members from the bank’s HR team visited a number of branches and units across the bank, collecting forms while raising more awareness about the fund.

“The response to this campaign was overwhelming,” said Mr Debattista. “This is very encouraging particularly since we truly believe that our people are our greatest asset and we invest, not only in their individual development, but also in instilling a strong sense of teamwork and caring across the organisation.”