Rise has been recognised for its work to support the health and wellbeing of its employees. 

The health and wellbeing charity has won a North East Better Health at Work Gold Award, which is given to organisations that meet a range of criteria, including actively raising awareness of health issues, providing access to wellbeing activities and promoting healthier practices at work. 

The prestigious award recognises Rise’s work to encourage better physical and mental health for employees, as well as support with financial wellbeing and work-life balance. 

Initiatives have included: 

• A trial of the innovative 4-day working week – where employees are paid 100% of their salary but work 30 hours a week instead of 37. 

• Physical wellbeing packs gifted to staff, which contain a Fitbit, a foot roller and resistance band; with access to YouTube videos on how to use the equipment. 

• Health checks, where staff had a 30-minute bespoke lifestyle consultation. 

• Steps challenges, including World Daily Mile Day, and a team walking challenge for National Walking Month in May. 

• Free 30-minute desk yoga sessions via Zoom. 

• A range of workshops on financial wellbeing, including advice on the cost-of-living crisis. 

• Employee Assistance Programme, with signposts to mental health support and counselling. 

Clare Morley, Rise’s chief executive officer, said: “At Rise we are always looking for innovative ways to lead from the front in protecting and enhancing physical and mental health, both for our staff and for the wider population. 

We recognise that the wellbeing of our team is integral to them being able to achieve our mission to improve lives through physical activity. We support our staff so they can help others. This award is testament to the hard work of our dedicated Health Advocates who have done an amazing job of implementing these initiatives that have had a positive impact on their colleagues. 

Helen Tong, business development director for Rise, adds: “For employers, promoting a healthy workplace has considerable benefits. Not only does it make financial sense, in terms of lower absenteeism, increased productivity and improved performance, but it can also enhance your reputation.”