A Newport-based financial business has been recognised with a national award for its commitment to the development of its staff.

Bridge Street-based Kymin has received the Fair Play Employer Achieving Award from Wales equality body Chwarae Teg.

Kymin managing director Robin Hall said: "We have found the programme very beneficial learning about the strengths and weaknesses of our business along the way. It has allowed us to update and to introduce several new policies that were lacking and on the back of this we have implemented further training for the team.”

Mr Hall said Kymin remains passionate about maintaining a positive working environment and culture for employees. Staff development is also key and contributes to a strong, stable and happy workforce.

"The company joined Chwarae Teg’s Business Programme to obtain support with regard to their policies and procedures, and in engaging and developing staff. All employees were invited to take part in an anonymous survey, which was analysed by the client partner.

"The client partner also undertook a review of the current working practices and made a number of recommendations, which were summarised within an Equality and Diversity Strategy and Action Plan."

The aim of the strategy was to embed inclusive working practices to support the recruitment, retention and progression of women and men working in Wales.

Bob Hicks, business partner, Chwarae Teg, said: “It was a pleasure to work with Kymin, who from the outset were passionate about ensuring staff were at the centre of the business and its future development.

“Kymin positively acted upon our advice and recommendations which put them at the forefront of modern policies and working practices and are very deserving of being recognised with a FairPlay Employer ‘Achieving Award’. They are committed to being inclusive, diverse and making sure staff feel valued and supported so that they can progress and thrive at work.

“At Chwarae Teg we work with clients across sectors and a wide range of industries, concentrating our support on what each organisation needs most. Ultimately this is all fully funded and can deliver improved performance, reputation and an increased client base and output for businesses.”

Established in 1993 Kymin Financial Services offers independent  financial planning and advice in a wide range of areas including investments, pensions, retirement planning and inheritance tax advice.