An office for the family

The development and operating company of the city of Bocholt (EWIBO) has now set an example for a better work-life balance: A family office has been opened at the headquarters of the municipal subsidiary in the Europa-Haus on Adenauerallee.

In the child-friendly room, children can pass the time with all kinds of toys or, depending on their age, do their schoolwork while their parents go about their work at the desk in the family office or next door.

"Welcome!" is written on the sign outside the office, which is decorated with unicorns and butterflies. "With the family office, we want to show that children are very welcome at our family-friendly company", explains EWIBO Managing Director Azra Zürn. According to Zürn, employees who have to bridge childcare bottlenecks at short notice are relieved. EWIBO employees and their family members can use the office flexibly and book it digitally via an app. The family office is also used for consultations with EWIBO customers that require an undisturbed atmosphere.

Mayor Thomas Kerkhoff, who is also Chairman of the Supervisory Board of EWIBO, welcomes the establishment of the family office: "In times in which the compatibility of family and career is also a high priority in business life, the establishment of this family office is a good contribution to EWIBO's employer brand. I am grateful for the idea and the quick realisation in the interests of the employees." Kerkhoff brought a set of building blocks to the inauguration - which were immediately taken up by Alina (3 years) and her sister Amina (4).

EWIBO Works Council Chairwoman Yvonne Malter is delighted: "The family office is a great service from our employer, which noticeably relieves our parents in stressful phases and is particularly beneficial for small children who need to be close to mum or dad."