A Wrexham company is reaping the benefits of support from Healthy Working Wales to improve the health and wellbeing of its staff.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Wockhardt UK, a leading supplier of generic and branded medicines to hospitals, retail and pharmacies, received support and advice from the Welsh Government funded Healthy Working Wales (HWW) programme, which is delivered by Public Health Wales and supports employers, individuals and a range of health professionals.
HWW aims to help working age people in Wales stay fit and healthy so they can remain in employment, or return to work following a period of ill health.
Employing more than 400 staff, Wockhardt UK began working towards a HWW Silver Corporate Health Standard by setting up a steering group, with a team of volunteers overseeing the development of health and wellbeing initiatives.
With HWW support and advice, the company has since introduced a flexible working policy, holistic therapy, free flu vaccinations, a stress questionnaire, and physiotherapy referrals.
Lynn Roberts, associate director of human resources at Wockhardt, said:
“Completing the award helped us to focus on all areas of improving a healthy working environment for staff here at Wockhardt. The help and support from the team at Public Health Wales was invaluable in ensuring we were able to not only gain the award but to maintain and continue to improve our Health and Well-being strategy.
Wockhardt UK continues to review its action plan and now aims to introduce mental health first aiders, set up a running group to encourage physical activity, and raise awareness of healthy eating by taking part in national awareness day campaigns. It hopes to achieve a HWW Gold Corporate Health Standard as a result.
Reducing the impact of mental and musculoskeletal disorders are among the key aims of the HWW programme.
Speaking on World Mental Health Day as the Wales Health at Work Summit got underway in Llandudno, Economy and Transport Minister Ken Skates said:
“Wrexham based Wockhardt UK is an excellent example of a business taking action to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of its workforce.
“Living healthy lives allows us all to fulfil our potential, meet our aspirations and play a full part in the economy and society of Wales. Healthy Working Wales plays a vital role in delivering exactly that and I’d encourage business of all sizes to get involved with the programme.
“A healthy workforce is also good for business. By addressing sickness absence issues, employers can benefit from improved staff retention, reduced staff turnover and a more engaged and productive workforce.