There has been a great deal of research into understanding the full implications of improving employees’ mental and physical health.
The ‘Start Active, Stay Active’ report, produced by the UK’s Chief Medical Officers tells us that £5.5bn a year has been lost from production as a result of sickness absence and that the majority of adults across the UK are insufficiently active.
The Department for Work and Pensions stated that 44% of employees found work to be stressful, which could lead to long-term sickness absence. Workplaces can have a significant impact on employee behaviour, and health and wellbeing policies can assist in people being more active and less sedentary as part of their working lives.
It is recommended that adults should aim for 2½ hours of moderate intensity activity a week. So what can you do to help your employees achieve this? With a bit of thought and planning and potentially a small investment, you can set up a physical activity programme that will get everyone moving!
Maybe you could consider a lunchtime walking group so staff can get some fresh air and feel re-energised for the afternoon. Or maybe you have a large meeting room that can be turned into a Pilates studio for an hour on a Tuesday.
After-work activities are also well received, especially for more vigorous pursuits such as five-a-side football or netball. You could even approach your local leisure centre and try to negotiate a discount for use of their gym and swimming pool.
Due to its nature, emotional wellbeing can be more difficult to support. Although it is well documented that physical activity can have a positive impact on our emotional state, it is important that support is in place for this.
The Department for Work and Pensions noted the positive impact on long-term sickness absences that can be achieved when an employer is supportive and health conditions are discussed at an early stage.
There are many ways to set up a health and wellbeing policy and this should be done with consideration to your both your staff and your available resources.
If you are looking for support, CSSC Sports and Leisure can help at no cost to employers. For more information, visit cssc.co.uk or call 01494 888444.
Simon Lee is chief executive, CSSC Sports & Leisure
This column is brought to you by CSSC Sport & Leisure
www.cssc.co.uk
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