Companies involved in the metals sector have received a boost in gaining access to HR, employment law, and health and safety services thanks to an exciting new collaboration with NatWest Mentor.
The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), which represents more than 200 businesses and 72,000 employees, has built on its strategic relationship with NatWest to introduce NatWest Mentor’s tailored HR subscription services for existing and new members.
Management teams can now sign up to a monthly subscription package (initial term is for 12 months) that provides access to industry-leading advice and support across HR, employment law, and health and safety.
“As an employment law professional, I have seen the balance of power shift from employer to employee, especially post-covid – and I only see this power growing exponentially with the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill,” explained Paul Buck, Relationship Director at NatWest Mentor.
“This is where we can add real value and support to CBM members. If they become a NatWest Mentor client, it will be our responsibility to ensure their business is protected, so we constantly update them on changes to legislation via the online platform, emails or through their dedicated consultant.”
He continued: “Metalformers have so much to contend with at the moment with high energy prices, tariffs, and a volatile global economy. This new partnership allows firms to tap into our dedicated experts for crucial HR, employment law, and health and safety issues, leaving them free to concentrate on their day-to-day activities.”
Exclusive CBM member offer
CBM has secured an exclusive 10% discount on monthly fees for their members, who can now access the core Partner offer for HR and employment law support services for as little as £376 + VAT per month for businesses with up to 100 employees. In addition, CBM members will receive a 10% discount on the suite of virtual and in-person training, now offered by NatWest Mentor specialists.
This is a bespoke approach that provides leadership teams with support across all aspects of HR, from managing business restructures, carrying out training needs analysis and succession planning, through to attending board meetings and helping shape businesses long-term HR strategy.
NatWest Mentor can also help with day-to-day tasks, from drafting employment contracts and employee handbooks to staying on top of complex legislation and legal developments. They’re also there when times are tough, providing guidance on disciplinaries, redundancies, grievances, and employment tribunals, with optional legal protection of up to £1million should the worst happen.
The monthly subscription offer will be aimed at businesses needing expert support with their health and safety systems and strategy. NatWest Mentor Business Partners provide a relationship management service that complements your in-house team, offering access to a 24-hour telephone advice service, onsite auditing and assessments, and support in developing a comprehensive health and safety management system.
Access to the NatWest Mentor Digital platform and eLearning system also forms part of the subscription packages, helping businesses manage holidays, absences, and employee documentation online, as well as providing access to HR digital advice and over 600 template documents.
Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the CBM, added her support: “Employment laws are shifting almost weekly, and it is an employer’s nightmare – thanks to our relationship with NatWest, we’re effectively saying we’ve got your back.
“The promotional offer runs from December 2025, and we are set to host a special webinar on Monday 12th January to give a first-hand insight into what is involved and how companies can benefit.
“Our membership offer has always been strong on the industry side of things, but we listened to feedback and, over the last twelve months, have been bringing in other professional services specialists that will make a real difference to our firms.”
She concluded: “NatWest has been a fantastic supporter of engineering and manufacturing, and this latest special offer is further evidence of how it wants our sector to succeed.”
Additional services
Outside of the monthly subscriptions, CBM members can also access a suite of virtual and in-person training courses provided by NatWest Mentor to help upskill their workforces.
NatWest Mentor also provides an optional Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) focused on enhancing employee wellbeing both inside and outside the workplace. Key features of the EAP include 24/7 telephone support and counselling, online GP and virtual healthcare services for all employees, and access to Your Care, a digital health management platform focused on proactive care.
Webinar Registration
To learn more about the subscription offer, a webinar will be held on Monday 12th January at 11am. To register, please email Melinda Jean at melinda.jean@thecbm.co.uk.
Further information
For more information or to enquire about NatWest Mentor services, contact, Paul Buck, Relationship Director at paul.buck@mentor.co.uk