University Centre Quayside (UCQ) is delighted to share that we have been awarded a Silver Award from the North East Better Health at Work Awards.
The Better Health At Work Award recognises the efforts of employers in the North East and Cumbria in addressing health issues within the workplace. Not only does it recognise the achievements, it all helps organisations move forwardin a structured and supported way.
Since achieving a Bronze Award in 2021, we have been working towards achieving a Silver Award. As a sign of our continued commitment, our Health & Wellbeing team has grown to include five.
Ben Devine, Curriculum Leader and Health Advocate at UCQ shares the impact this scheme has had on his health:
“I started my employment with UCQ in 2018 and was introduced to the Better Health at Work Scheme during my induction. Since then my mindset around health and exercise has totally changed and I’ve made the conscious decision to get fit and healthy.
“I now have a better understanding of the benefits and value of exercising for better health and have an active exercise regime. I walk mornings and evenings completing on average 7 miles a day. I have also taken part in challenges with other UCQ staff members like the couch to 5k challenge.
Kelly Pattison & Ben Devine, Health Advocates at UCQ
“Losing weight through a combination of a healthy diet and exercise routine has reduced my risk of developing medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes which my GP had warned I was at risk of developing.
“Without the support and advice from my better health at work colleagues, I am not sure I would have had the confidence or the will power to have started my journey to health and fitness. I am now 3.5 stone lighter, eating healthy and feeling energised as a person.”
If you want to speak to someone about implementing this scheme in your workplace, you can reach out to Ben Devine at ben.devine@ucq.ac.uk or 07366564165.
The award scheme is free, flexible and open to all employers in the North East and Cumbria, regardless of size, location or type of business. For more information visit https://www.betterhealthatworkaward.org.uk/