At O’Brien Media, we believe that a thriving workplace isn’t just about great projects and results—it’s about ensuring our team members feel valued, supported, and empowered in all aspects of their lives. That’s why pastoral care is a core part of our company culture, fostering a work environment where well-being and personal growth are just as important as professional success.
What Does Pastoral Care Mean at O’Brien Media?
Pastoral care in the workplace is about providing support for our employees’ emotional, mental, and physical well-being. We recognise that work and life are deeply connected, and we take an active role in ensuring that our team members feel cared for—both professionally and personally.
How We Support Our Team
Our approach to pastoral care is embedded in everything we do, from our leadership style to our daily operations. Here are some of the ways we foster a positive and supportive work environment:
1. Leadership That Cares About More Than Just Work
Our leadership team goes beyond traditional management roles. We actively support our team members with elements of their personal lives, helping them work towards individual goals such as further education, personal development, or balancing work and family commitments. We encourage open conversations about aspirations beyond work and do what we can to provide guidance and resources to help our team succeed in all areas of life.
2. Flexible Working for Work-Life Balance
We understand that flexibility is essential in today’s workplace. Our team benefits from remote working options, flexible hours, and an approach that prioritises results over rigid schedules. While we love collaborating in our Swindon office, we also respect that some tasks are best done in a quiet, focused environment at home.
3. Mental Health and Well-Being Support
We take mental health seriously. Our team is encouraged to take mental health days when needed, and we have created an open and stigma-free environment where well-being is always a priority. We also provide access to resources and professional support when required.
4. A Positive and Inclusive Work Environment
Our office space in Old Town, Swindon, is designed to be a welcoming and comfortable environment. We’ve created a workspace that promotes calmness and focus. We also ensure that inclusivity is at the heart of our culture, making sure every team member feels valued and respected.
5. Professional and Personal Development
Growth is a big part of job satisfaction, and we actively encourage both professional and personal development. Whether it’s learning new skills, taking on new challenges, or pursuing outside interests, we offer training, mentoring, and support to help our team reach their full potential.
6. Team Bonding and Social Well-Being
A great workplace is built on strong relationships. We regularly organise social activities, team lunches, and even fitness challenges to encourage team bonding and collaboration. Whether it’s a casual coffee catch-up or a more structured team event, we ensure that our team stays connected and engaged.
7. Open Communication and Transparency
We believe in honest and open communication. Our leadership team maintains an open-door policy where employees can voice their thoughts, concerns, and ideas without hesitation. By fostering a culture of transparency, we ensure that everyone has a voice and plays a role in shaping our company’s future.
Why Pastoral Care Matters in a Digital-First Workplace
As a digital agency, much of our work is technology-driven, but we never lose sight of the human element. A strong focus on pastoral care leads to:
- Higher productivity – A happy and supported team is more engaged and creative.
- Better teamwork – Stronger workplace relationships improve communication and collaboration.
- Reduced stress and burnout – A supportive environment helps our team maintain a healthy balance.
- Improved retention – Employees who feel valued are more likely to grow with us long-term.
Our Commitment to a Positive Workplace
At O’Brien Media, pastoral care isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a fundamental part of who we are. We are committed to maintaining a workplace where every team member feels supported, encouraged, and motivated to do their best work, not just for the company but for themselves as well.
We’re proud of the culture we’ve built and are always looking for new ways to enhance the well-being of our team. If you’d like to learn more about our approach to workplace support, feel free to get in touch—we’d love to share our insights and experiences.
Would you like to work with a team that values people as much as performance? Contact us today and see the O’Brien Media difference.