Workplaces from across the region have been recognised for their contribution to staff health and wellbeing at a special event.
The 2019 Better Health at Work Awards (BHAWA) were held in Middlesbrough Town Hall.
The Award scheme promotes employees’ health and wellbeing, with businesses working towards Bronze, Silver, Gold, Continuing Excellence and Maintaining Excellence awards.
Staff can access health and wellbeing information through health campaigns, benefit from health policies as well as introduce healthier foods and activities within the workplace.
The approach brings a host of positive benefits for employers including reduced absenteeism, increased productivity and improved performance.
Better Health at Work Award Programme Coordinator Susanne Nichol, of the TUC which oversees the delivery of the BHAWA, said: “There are currently 64 workplaces engaged in this programme across Teesside with a direct reach of over 31,000 employees.
“Of the workplaces taking part, 65% are SMEs, and to date more than 90 Health Advocates have been trained in Teesside.”
More than 40 Teesside workplaces and over 190 people attended the 2019 Better Health at Work celebration event at Middlesbrough Town Hall.
Workplaces also received Ambassador Status, and other accolades including Health Advocate of the Year and Special Recognition Awards for workplaces and those who have gone the extra mile to inspire, encourage or promote healthier lifestyles.
Three Middlesbrough workplaces – Acklam Grange School, Actes Trust and Seqens – were awarded Pass Plus Level for achieving the highest standard set by the TUC.
Judith Hedgley, Middlesbrough Council’s Head of Public Protection, said: “This important annual event is a well-deserved celebration of the success of all the workplaces who are helping to improve employee health and wellbeing in Teesside.”
South Tees Director of Public Health Edward Kunonga added: “It’s great to hear about all the innovative and inspiring approaches being carried out in places of work to improve and protect the health of their staff.
“People spend a considerable amount of their time in their work environment and it make sense that they can receive and benefit from positive lifestyle messages and opportunities which can help them and their families live healthier lives.”
