CLOTHING supplier Clothes2order has unveiled a new employee benefits package which includes the offer of emergency loans to help staff facing sudden or unexpected domestic bills.

Cash advances of up to a month’s wages are being offered to the Trafford Park firm’s 90-strong workforce, with repayments being made from their salaries over a six-month period.

Managing director Michael Conway said: “Our rates of pay are above the level of the government’s new National Living Wage but we recognise that people are sometimes faced with unforeseen expenses.

“We are offering the loans to give our staff peace of mind that we can assist them if necessary. We are pleased to be able to offer this low-cost borrowing safety net.

“The stress of being faced with unexpected bills can be a huge headache, and we believe this initiative is a good way to reduce the impact and is a welcome alternative to payday lenders or other high-interest loans.”

The loans are available at two per cent above the Bank of England base rate, which has stood at 0.5 per cent since March 2009

Other benefits in the new package include financial rewards for employees who suggest ways to improve the business.

The benefits package also includes an additional day’s paid holiday for every three years of service, attendance bonuses, extra money for first-aiders and fire marshals, and health cash plans enabling employees to recover costs associated with various types of medical treatment, such as eye care and dental charges.

Mr Conway said: “We are committed to creating an environment where people feel valued, respected and happy, and where contributions and achievements that help drive the progress of the company are recognised and rewarded."