Healthy Workplace Awards Contest is Back

THE third annual Hart Healthy Workplace Awards has just opened for business and all the

portents are that it will once again be  bigger and better.

Says organiser Nigel Wood: “More and more businesses are realising that a happy, healthy workforce not only performs better but it also makes for a more pleasant working environment.”

He points out that a lower level of absenteeism helps everyone –especially overworked colleagues who find themselves providing cover.

For the last two years employers have been able to apply for a Healthy Workplace Award to recognise their efforts in health and safety; healthy eating; physical activity; quitting smoking  and stress in the workplace.

Mr Wood says previous winners have been surprised at how much they already do in these areas and how even higher level awards can be achieved with a little extra effort.

Gold, silver and bronze awards are available and entrants select which they are aiming for. Past winners of bronze and silver are expected to set their sights even higher this time.

Sponsors include Frimley Park Hospital, Hart District Council and the Four Seasons Hotel, Dogmersfield where the prestigious awards ceremony will be held in January.

Andy Howard, Head at Velmead Junior School, Fleet, which won a gold award last year, commented: “This award was built upon our work around Enhanced Healthy Schools Status. I was very proud that we met the gold standard. I am very pleased to support the continued development of this project and would encourage businesses and other schools to have a go.”

Hart’s Cabinet member for Housing and Health, Cllr Susan Band, says: “I am pleased that each year an increasing number of local businesses realise the benefits of taking care of the health of their staff and sign up for this award.”

Businesses need to express an interest by September 30 and submit applications by November 2. For more information and to download an application pack visit www.harthealthywork.org or contact Nigel Wood or Nick Steevens (01252 774421).