Who are we?
Relyens, a history that will soon be a century old
From a French mutual insurance company dedicated to hospitals to a mutual group with a European mission. Our history spans nearly a century of commitment to those who care for others.
1927
Sham, created by and for hospitals in France
Twenty healthcare institutions have joined forces to create Sham (Société Hospitalière d’Assurances Mutuelles), the first mutual insurance company dedicated to staff. Its founding mission: to cover work-related accidents for hospital staff, both secular and religious.
Sham becomes a
medical risk expert
Sham reinforces its mutualist spirit by opening up to other public bodies in France and distributing its first “rebates”. The company affirms its expertise in hospital liability, notably with the organization of its first symposium.
60s
2000s
Sham opens up to the private sector
By amending its statutes to also include the private sector, the mutual insurance company marks a turning point in its history. Sham now supports healthcare facilities and professionals.
Sham and Sofaxis join forces
Sham announces the acquisition of Sofaxis. With more than 700 employees, the group aims to become a leading multi-specialist player in insurance, risk management and social protection, serving healthcare stakeholders and local communities.
2013
2015
2017
The beginning of an
international adventure
The group is beginning its European expansion with the opening of its first branch in Madrid, Spain. The adventure continued in Germany with the opening of the first offices in Dortmund, followed by a move to Düsseldorf. In Italy, we acquired Ravinale & Partners, an Italian expert in medical liability compensation.
The group continues its development
The Sham Group has become the Relyens Group and now has over 1,000 employees in Europe. As a symbol of trust and connection, this new name evokes the idea of ”relying on” and working “together.” This milestone also marks a new ambition: to secure the activities of our clients and members through risk management and exclusive technological partnerships.
2019
2020
2021
Relyens becomes a mission-driven company
Relyens is taking a significant step forward by becoming a mission-driven company. The company is making a long-term commitment to its stakeholders by meeting new requirements. Through renewed governance (mission committee) and independent auditing (Independent Third Party Organization – ITO), we guarantee the concrete implementation of our actions.
A unique brand, serving the mission
The historic brands Sham and Sofaxis are merging into a single brand: Relyens. This name change represents a new stage of maturity for the group, which is uniting around a common mission: “To act and innovate, alongside those who work for the common good, to build a world of trust.”
2023
2024
From insurer to risk manager
Relyens is profoundly transforming its model, shifting from insurer to risk manager, to meet the new challenges faced by healthcare stakeholders and territories. Better understanding, anticipating and managing risk: this is the whole point of our new approach, based on a rigorous scientific approach and the support of data.
