Representatives from Advance Union, the CWU and Santander came together on 2 July for the latest Health, Safety and Wellbeing National Joint Forum, providing an opportunity to review workplace safety, employee wellbeing and a number of issues raised directly by union representatives on behalf of members. The meeting demonstrated the continued commitment of all parties to working in partnership to maintain safe and healthy workplaces across the organisation.

A key theme of the meeting was Santander’s ongoing refresh of its health and safety framework. Management outlined work underway to strengthen leadership accountability, simplify guidance for managers and colleagues, and improve assurance processes across the business. Updated Health and Safety policy documents, clearer ownership arrangements and a review of future training plans are all designed to help embed a stronger safety culture beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements.

The forum reviewed accident and incident data from across the business. During the first quarter of 2026, ten accidents were recorded, including one RIDDOR-reportable incident involving a shelving collapse in a branch. Slips, trips and equipment-related incidents continued to be the most common causes of accidents, helping identify areas where preventative action can be focused.

Attention also turned to several health and safety events raised by Advance. These included recent site closures following a local security incident, concerns regarding building infrastructure issues such as water ingress and fire safety systems, and the importance of ensuring recognised trade unions are informed promptly when serious incidents arise. Advance emphasised the value of partnership working and highlighted opportunities for closer communication between management and unions when dealing with emerging health and safety risks. A commitment to keep the union informed on circulation was reaffirmed.

Wellbeing support services were another major area of discussion. Santander shared data on the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), which received more than 1,300 calls over the previous twelve months, with mental health concerns accounting for almost half of all contacts. Anxiety, low mood and bereavement were among the most common reasons colleagues sought support, underlining the continued importance of accessible wellbeing services.

The forum also received an update on Occupational Health services delivered through Medigold. Management referrals increased significantly during the first quarter of 2026, while service performance remained strong. The data showed that most colleagues referred to Occupational Health were able to remain in or return to work with appropriate support and adjustments in place. Mental health remained the largest referral category, reflecting wider trends seen across workplace wellbeing services.

Union representatives raised several important wellbeing questions, including the impact of Private Medical Insurance and Help@Hand services on colleague health and sickness absence levels. They also sought assurances around the bank’s preparations for increasingly frequent periods of extreme weather, particularly heatwaves. They asked what additional measures may be introduced to protect colleagues during severe weather events, of which the bank explained several measures they have in place to support members.

The meeting also reviewed first-aid provision across Santander’s office locations. Reported compliance levels remained consistently high across major sites, providing assurance that trained first aid support continues to be available throughout the organisation.

While the discussions covered a broad range of topics, the shared focus remained clear: protecting colleagues, supporting wellbeing and ensuring that health and safety remains central to decision-making. The forum highlighted the importance of open dialogue between Santander and Union representatives, with all parties committed to maintaining constructive engagement and continuing to improve health, safety and wellbeing standards across the business. The next meeting is scheduled to take place in early 2027.