Physiotherapy Matters receives award promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace
February 26, 2016
Physiotherapy Matters has been recognised for their commitment to staff health and wellbeing from the Better Health at Work Awards. Last Friday evening Physiotherapy Matters’ staff joined businesses from across the North East at the awards ceremony held at St James’ Park to collect the certificate for achieving the Bronze Standard.
For the Better Health at Work Award, organisations are assessed on 11 criteria to achieve the bronze level of the award, including identifying a health advocate from within their staff, conducting a health needs assessment with employees and running three health improvement campaigns.
Laura Barker, Business Manager and Health Advocate said
“During 2015, we conducted a short questionnaire with staff which gave us insight into which particular areas of health and wellbeing were important or of concern to them.
We targeted our activities as a result of this survey and implemented campaigns which included a healthy eating campaign when free fruit was available to encourage healthy snacks during the day; an alcohol awareness session where through quizzes and fun games staff were able to reflect upon their own alcohol consumption; and putting our own specialist skills to use and tied in with Work Out At Work Day we provided postural assessments to highlight issue associated with bad posture and desk-based exercises that staff can fit into their working day. These campaigns were all really well received by staff and feedback has been very positive.”
“We are now looking forward to building on these activities as we work towards the silver and gold levels of this award over the next few years.”
The awards were developed to give recognition and endorsement to workplaces that motivate their employees to develop a sustainable culture of health and wellbeing. Physiotherapy Matters, has helped other businesses including Metro operator DB Regio to achieve the Gold award through provision of on-site physiotherapy services and reducing sickness absence through prevention and treatment of MSK conditions.
Nick Livadas, Clinical Manager, who was at the ceremony to pick up the award said
“Most of us spend a large proportion of our time in the workplace, making it one of the most important places for advice and help about healthier lifestyles.
“As a healthcare organisation ourselves we are committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our employees is a priority. This award is a great way to demonstrate that commitment.”
Any business with more than five workers can take part in the free Better Health at Work award.
Taking part in the Better Health at Work award will support firms in addressing health and wellbeing issues and will provide recognition for their achievements in improving the health of staff, the business and the wider community.
Further information on the award can be found on the Better Health at Work website or if you would like further information about how physiotherapy could be of benefit to your business please contact Nick Livadas on 0191 285 8701.