Lincolnshire Co-op has been awarded the prestigious Investors in People Platinum accreditation held by under 200 employees nationally. 

This recognition highlights the society as a people-focused business promoting a positive working culture where colleagues are effectively led, supported, and managed. Platinum is the highest level of accreditation. 

The society achieved this status following over 2,000 surveys and 100 interviews with colleagues from different areas of the business. Using the ‘We Invest in People’ framework, Lincolnshire Co-op was assessed on areas such as leading and inspiring people, managing performance and creating sustainable success, achieving ‘high performing’ for most areas. 

The report commended the society’s effective communication of its Purpose Beyond Profit 2030 strategy, which provides a clear direction for achieving its objectives and vision. Schemes such as ‘Talk to Alison’ sessions, where CEO Alison Hands and other executive leadership team members answer colleagues’ questions, were highlighted as examples of effective engagement. 

Colleagues receive comprehensive support, from onboarding to financial and mental wellbeing resources. Managers are supported during recruitment; while learning and development programmes offer opportunities to build skills and progress into leadership roles. 

Overall, 82% of colleagues who participated in surveys agreed Lincolnshire Co-op is a great place to work. 

The society will continue implementing Purpose Beyond Profit 2030, with the upcoming launch of a new People and Culture strategy to further enhance support for colleagues. 

Alison Hands, Chief Executive Officer at Lincolnshire Co-op, said: “We are delighted and proud to receive Investors in People Platinum. This accreditation reflects the hard work of everyone involved in developing Purpose Beyond Profit 2030. 

“To be recognised nationally shows how we foster an open, inclusive, and progressive workplace environment. We will continue building on this foundation with our new People and Culture strategy.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to colleagues who participated in surveys and interviews, our Learning and Development team for leading the assessment, and all our amazing colleagues who make Lincolnshire Co-op a great place to work.”