Workplace award scheme growing

THE Hart Healthy Workplace Award Scheme launched last year is back again –and looks like being bigger and better this year.

Organiser Virginia Taylor, Environmental Health Officer, says a number of organisations in the district have already decided to enter and she expects many more.

Working with Hampshire Primary Care Trust and the North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce the council devised a voluntary bronze, silver and gold grading system to recognise organisations working to improve the health of their employees.

The focus is on health and safety, healthy eating, physical activity, smoking and stress.

Judging will be based on the organisations’ submissions as well as comments from employees, who will be encouraged to say how effective or otherwise health initiatives are.

Last year the scheme culminated in a prestigious awards ceremony at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dogmersfield.

Sponsors include the Four Seasons, Frimley Park Hospital and Cardionetics, a local software company.

This year’s deadline is August 30.

Health and Housing Portfolio Holder Cllr Susan Band commented: “I am proud that Hart is leading the way to encourage employers to look after the health of their staff. I wholeheartedly endorse the scheme and commend it to all big or small business employers.”

Fore more information see the project web site www.harthealthywork.org where an application pack can be downloaded. Or ring Virginia Taylor at Hart on 01252 774421 or Valerie Cloke at North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 01252 811470. Or email eh@hart.gov.uk