Why is workplace wellbeing important?
Workplace health and wellbeing has become more important in recent years; there’s growing evidence to show that a healthy workforce is happier, more productive and less likely to be absent due to ill health.
Productive working days lost due to physical and mental health issues cost the UK economy approximately £77.5 billion a year. (Britain’s healthiest workplace report 2017)
After short-term illnesses the most common reasons for sickness absence are:
- musculoskeletal problems such as back paiN
- mental health issues notably stress, depression and anxiety
As the UK workforce continues to age, there will be an increasing number of people living with long-term conditions so it is more important than ever to implement changes which allow the workforce to improve their health and wellbeing.
The Workplace Wellbeing Award encourages organisations to support their workforce to adopt healthier lifestyles. Small changes can make a big difference for example providing healthier food and drink choices and encouraging staff to walk up the stairs rather than take the lift. Physical activity programmes at work have been found to reduce absenteeism by up to 20%. The Workplace Wellbeing Award North Yorkshire recognises the efforts undertaken by many organisations to address health and wellbeing issues within the workplace.
Who can apply?
Any size or type of business i.e. a public, private or voluntary sector organisation as long as they are based in North Yorkshire.
How much does it cost?
The award scheme is free and includes one-to-one support and guidance every step of the way from initial sign up through to achievement of the award.
What does it involve?
There are three levels to the award which progresses from the bronze entry level to silver and then gold. Each level builds on previous achievements and has core corporate components relating to organisational culture, leadership and employee engagement along with specific lifestyle elements to deal with preventable ill health issues in the workplace.
Once you have submitted a signed application to join we will arrange to meet you to discuss the first steps, which will include:
- identifying the key health needs of your workforce;
- drawing up an action plan to address those needs; and
- identifying your workplace wellbeing champions.
For details about the elements that need to be met for each level of the award and the assessment process see the employers guide (pdf / 4 MB).
Application form
Workplace wellbeing award application form (pdf / 484 KB)
Further Information
The Director of Public Health Annual Report 2016 focussed on the health and wellbeing of the working population. You can read the Director of Public Health reports on our partnerships website.
Thriving at work
We are a delivery partner for Thriving at Work, a programme funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and the European Social Fund. Find more information about Thriving at work.
