It was a Valentine's Day with a difference at Bank of Valletta. The campaign Make our Heart Grow Bigger was launched across the bank in an effort to encourage BOV employees to contribute to the BOV Employee Welfare Fund.

Ray Debattista, Executive Human Resources said, "As one of the largest employers in Malta, the setting up of the Employee Welfare Fund was a natural initiative for us at Bank of Valletta. Every year the bank sets aside a lump sum towards this Fund, through which we give our support to employees and their dependents requiring medical treatment in Malta or abroad." He went on to explain that every case is evaluated on its own merits by a dedicated committee, headed by Human Resources. Besides contributing financially, employees can also donate hours from their leave entitlement, to assist their colleagues in need. This is an additional buffer to the several policies and health benefits offered by the bank.

The campaign sought to encourage the bank's workforce, numbering over 1,500, to make a minimum monthly commitment of €1 from their salary towards this fund. Employees who chose to enrol in this scheme or increase their monthly commitment received a sweet treat on Valentine's Day. Over the past days, members from the bank's HR team visited a number of branches and units across the bank, collecting forms while raising awareness on the Fund among their colleagues.

"The response to this campaign was overwhelming," Mr Debattista said. "This is very encouraging, particularly because we truly believe that our people are our greatest asset, and we invest not only in their individual development, but also by instilling a strong sense of teamwork and caring across the organisation."