Spring 2013 | Advocate Magazine

the magazine from the uk’s leading employee benefits advisory

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spring 2013 | issue#5 | advogroup.co.uk

Yahoo! marissa mayer, ceo of yahoo! calls an end to working from home page 06

advo group discover how the new healthylife service can impact on your business page 28

water fruit box

justine clarabut writes for advocate on the effect of healthy eating on employee absenteeism page 24 ‘The energy boost of a sugary snack wears off quickly, so reaching for that chocolate bar or packet of crisps just doesn’t suffice!’

advogroup.co.uk | editor’s note

meet the team at advo group larry bulmer chief executive lbulmer @advogroup.co.uk

chris mc cracken Director, commercial cmccracken @advogroup.co.uk colin boxall Director, corporate cboxall @advogroup.co.uk kevin crew director advo sis kcrew @advogroup.co.uk yvette butterworth corporate ybutterworth @advogroup.co.uk sharon harwooddavis consultant sharwood-davis @advogroup.co.uk emma shaw personal healthcare eshaw @advogroup.co.uk gill mateo operations manager gmateo @advogroup.co.uk

“

One human resource news story that has been grabbing headline space all over the web is that of Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer calling an end to all Yahoo! employees being able to work from home

”

Editor’s note Welcome to the Spring 2013 edition of Advocate magazine bought to you by ADVO Group!

One human resource news story that has been grabbing headline space all over the web is that of Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer calling an end to all Yahoo! employees being able to work from home. This has sparked a fierce debate as to whether Mayer was right to make the call. Infamous entrepreneurs such as Richard Branson have commented and a range of theories have been offered as to what the motives are for the change.

Some say Google’s corporate culture is trying to be emulated, others have said there is a problem with telecommuting abuse particularly prevalent at Yahoo! which is being addressed. To find out more about story head to page 6.

This edition of Advocate also reports on the official launch of ADVO Group’s new ‘healthylife’ service. As well as being able to find out more about this service and the benefits it can offer your business, you’ll also be hearing from a range of our partnering health and wellbeing providers. This includes exclusive interviews with Wayne Campbell from Healthy Performance (32), Ben McGannan from Water at Work and Home (page 46) and an exclusive guest article from Justine Clarabut from Water Fruit Box (page 24).

We’re also looking at an expansive range of occupational health and human resource issues including the occupational factors that are leading to the onset of asthma later in life, how London employers are creating healthier workplaces, the damage to your health caused by staying at the desk for your lunchbreak, how adopting the ‘standing desk’ working routine synonymous with Winston Churchill can help you burn ‘easy calories’ in the office and much more!

chris fiander marketing manager cfiander@advogroup.co.uk

advogroup.co.uk | who we are

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Advocate magazine is produced by ADVO Group

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Advocate Magazine is produced by ADVO Group and published quarterly.

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ADVO Group Ltd is a mid-sized independent employee benefits advisory with a broad-based clientele. Our objective is to be seen as the UK’s most trusted adviser on employee benefits solutions.

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advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 03

advogroup.co.uk | contents

contents issue#5 spring 2013 human resources Page 06

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Is Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer right to ban working from home?

Page 10

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Are we losing a generation of skills?

Page 12

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UK’s most successful corporate managers live abroad during their formative years

Page 14

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Many issues still cause disharmony between business leaders and human resource professionals

Page 16

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British Employees Care Passionately About Business Success but Lack the Support to Achieve It

Page 18

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Industry research reveals that workplace art boosts staff productivity and wellbeing

Page 20

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Rolex and Apple top the lists for Superbrands 2013

occupational health Page 24

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Justine Clarabut, Water Fruit Box writes exclusively for ADVO Group

Page 28

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Engage your employees with ‘healthylife’, the brand new service from ADVO Group

Page 30

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Occupational asthma can be prevented

Page 32

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Exclusive interview with Wayne Campbell, Healthy Performance

Page 38

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BBC reports on the health risks of office workers eating lunch while at the desk

Page 40

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London employers create healthier workplaces

Page 42

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Adopting Winston Churchill’s standing desk can burn ‘easy calories’

Page 44

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Defibrillator survey raises workplace heart attack concerns

Page 46

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Exclusive Interview with Ben McGannan, Water for Work and Home

Page 50

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MPs tweet in the fight against heart disease

other advo group news Page 52

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Is open-referral private medical insurance right for employers?

Page 54

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Exclusive interview with ADVO Group’s Lucy Irvine

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 04

page 08 justine clarabut exclusive interview writes exclusively fiona summerville advo grouphealth rsfor occupational page 24

advogroup.co.uk | contents

Engage your employees with ‘healthylife’ page 28

London employers create healthier workplaces page 06

Is Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer right to ban working from home? page 26 page 06 exclusive interview with jean crew advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 05

advogroup.co.uk | Yahoo! CEo bans working from home

advocate spring 2013| advogroup.co.uk | 06

The later half of February 2013 has seen Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer make one of her most controversial decisions since taking the reigns at the company since July last year.

The decision was made that all Yahoo! employees who currently work remotely from home would need to find a way to work at the office by June later this year.

The message informing Yahoo! employees of the change to company policy was sent from Jackie Reses, representing human resources at at the company. Part of the message sent from Jackie Reses read “To become the absolute best place to work, communication and collaboration will be important, so we need to be working side-by-side.

That is why it is critical that we are all present in our offices. Some of the best decisions and insights come from hallway and cafeteria discussions, meeting new people, and impromptu team meetings. Speed and quality are often sacrificed when we work from home. We need to be one Yahoo!, and that starts with physically being together” (source: http://on.mash.to/YyJ5Cq)

is Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer right to ban working from home? news.advogroup.co.uk

The working mothers at Yahoo! are, in particular, some of the more disgruntled members of staff with regard to this recent HR decision.

Being unable to work form home will of course in turn cause problems with managing childcare. However, many of these employees feel an extra level of resentment that Marissa Mayer is unable to empathise with their situation. This is in light of the fact that when Mayer had a son last year she paid to have a nursery built into the Yahoo! office. The husband of a remotely working Yahoo! employee commented on this issue, saying “I wonder what would happen if my wife brought our kids and nanny to work and set them up in the cube next door?” (source: http://read.bi/ XWJyMs).

The move by Yahoo! also generated comment from Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin, who said Yahoo!’s decision to ban working from home was a “backwards step in an age when remote working is easier and more effective than ever” (source: http://bbc.in/YyWDxI).

However, there has also been a significant amount of support for Mayer making the decision to ban working from home. Former Yahoo! employees have spoken of their support for the move saying that it is in fact desperately needed. One former Yahoo! employee commented “For what it’s worth, I support the no working form home rule. There’s a ton of abuse of that at Yahoo!

Something specific to the company (source: http://read.bi/XWPEML)”.

“

I support the no working form home rule.

There’s a ton of abuse of that at Yahoo. Something specific to the company

”

A second former employee of the company also commented “Working from home may be convenient for some but it represents a huge opportunity cost to the team, especially a team that’s trying to turn things around. The value in human interaction is greater collective wisdom as a result of improved communication & collaboration.

It’s really all about improving the likelihood that meaningful interaction will translate to meaningful (shareholder) value” (source: http:// read.bi/XWPEML).

In addition to simply trying to get people who work from home into the office, there may be an additional motive behind the recent move.

Interestingly, it is believed that employees were told that those who wouldn’t be able to comply with the ban on working from home, or those that would refuse to co-operate, should find work elsewhere. It may be the case that an estimated proportion of those currently working remotely will in fact hand in their notice at Yahoo! In doing so, the process of slimming down the company and making any necessary redundancies will largely take care of itself.

be receiving a free new smartphone.

Employees were given the option of choosing between the iPhone5, the latest offering from Apple, or a range of cutting edge Android devices. It was also confirmed that the free smartphones would be provided to part-time as well as full-time employees. The internal memo from Yahoo! at the time of the smartphone announcement read “We have a very exciting update to share with you today – we are announcing Yahoo! Smart Phones, Smart Fun! It is also worth noting that Yahoo! is As of today, Yahoo is moving off not a company adverse to providing of blackberries as our corporate perks and benefits to its employees. phones and on to smartphones in 22 It was reported in ADVO Group’s countries. A few weeks ago, we said news section (news.advogroup.co.uk) that we would look into smartphone only last September that Mayer had penetration rates globally and confirmed that all employees would take those rates into account when

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deciding on corporate phones.

Ideally, we’d like our employees to have devices similar to our users, so we can think and work as the majority of our users do. Moving forward, we’ll offer you a choice of devices as well as provide monthly plans for the data and phone.” In addition, it is also reported that Yahoo! provides many perks that are synonymous with other companies based in Silicon Valley such as providing free food to its employees.

It has also been argued that Mayer may be trying to replicate certain elements of the working culture found at Google. It was at Google that she spent thirteen years of her

advogroup.co.uk | Yahoo! CEo bans working from home

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Working from home may be convenient for some but it represents a huge opportunity cost to the team, especially a team that’s trying to turn things around

”

career and was involved in some of the company’s most notorious projects such as Gmail, Google Images and iGoogle to name but a few. It is argued that the emphasis on employees being able to engage in daily face-to-face interactions is one of the most characteristic elements of Google’s working culture (source: http://bit.ly/15fxVGD) that Mayer could be now aiming to replicate within Yahoo! The BBC have also reported that Google’s current Chief Financial Officer, Patrick Pichette, when asked how many Google employees telecommute, responded “as few as possible”.

Pichette commented further “There is something magical about spending the time together, about noodling on ideas, about asking at the computer

‘What do you think of this?’” (source: http://bbc.in/YyWDxI) In light of the array of media attention that the ban on working from home at Yahoo! has receieved, Yahoo! spokesperson Lauren Armstrong issued the following public statement “We don’t discuss internal matters. This isn’t a broad industry view on working from home — this is about what is right for Yahoo!, right now” (source: http://on.mash.to/ YyJ5Cq).

Alan Denbigh, co-author of The Teleworking Handbook and former executive director of the Telework Association provided support for both sides of the argument saying that there are benefits to both working

from home and being at the office and that the best appraoch should incorporate both of these elements into our working structure (source: http://bbc.in/YyWDxI).

Whether you’re in support of Marissa Mayer’s decision or a fan of tele-commuting, ADVO Group can make a huge difference to the levels of employee engagement at your company. To find out how speak to one of our expert and fully independent advisors today on 0845 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 09

advogroup.co.uk | are we losing a generation of skills?

are we losing a generation of skills? news.advogroup.co.uk advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 10

advogroup.co.uk | are we losing a generation of skills?

Recent research commissioned

by Skillsoft has looked at the way business leaders are investing, or indeed failing to invest in older members of staff. The research polled a range of CEOs from across the United Kingdom. It was found that as many as 92% of those asked admitted that they failed to make investments in the development and training of members of staff who were over the age of sixty.

40% of the CEOs polled claimed to invest in development and training for staff of all ages. However, this was found to be far from the truth with just 8% of those polled saying that they did actually provide training for staff over the age of sixty. The research also discovered that it generally tended to be larger companies who were more likely to reflect the development of older members of staff.

The findings of this latest research seem particularly worrying given the fact that so many employees are now making the decision to work well past the hitherto long-established retirement age of sixth-five.

Kevin Young commented further “British businesses are putting their future at risk by not investing in the older generation and this potential change in employee demographics should be a catalyst for businesses to rethink their training solutions and budget allocation before a wider skills gap emerges”

Kevin Young, general manager, EMEA at Skillsoft, said: “Two billion people will be over 60 by 2050 , many of whom will remain in employment for longer, so organisations need to re-think their training plans to accommodate this growing ageing workforce. The older generation can add so much value to an organisation with their experience, and failing to complement this with the latest key training, could potentially damage the future development of any business.

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Two billion people will be over 60 by 2050 , many of whom will remain in employment for longer, so organisations need to re-think their training plans to accommodate this growing ageing workforce

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“With nearly 85% of British bosses not considering training the over 60s as a priority, the problem appears more deep rooted than just a shortterm cost-cutting exercise. Changes to the retirement age and uncertainty over pensions means that many over 60s want to work longer and remain an integral part of a company for years to come,” concludes Young.

The research found that more than

Additional research from Canada Life at the end of 2012 claimed that in fact over a third of workers will continue to work past the age of sixty-five. Paul Avis, Sales and Marketing Director at Canada Life Group Insurance explained a further range of potential issues highlighted by the research from CanadaLife. He explained that the increase in employees working past sixty-five may have a detrimental effect on younger workers but also that employers may find it harder to provide benefits such as medical care as the costs will likely dramatically increase. He commented “It is evident that many UK workers intend to take advantage of recent changes to the default retirement age and work past the age of 65. Whether this will have a positive or negative effect on younger workers remains to be seen, but it is inevitable that having an older workforce will have implications on the kind of benefits that employers can provide. For older workers, healthcare provision and group protection products such as critical illness cover will become an increasingly attractive part of their employment package. If a substantial rise in the number of older workers should occur within the workplace, employers will find it hard to avoid providing these types of products, but may find it more expensive” Regardless of the age of your workforce ADVO Group can advise an excellent range of employee benefit solutions. Speak to one of our expert and fully independent advisors today on 0856 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 11

advogroup.co.uk | uk’s most successful managers live abroad

UK’s most confident corporate managers live abroad during their formative years according to research from university of exeter exeter.ac.uk Recent research from the Business School at the University of Exeter shows that corporate managers who are more widely exposed to multiple cultures during their latter years are more likely to be able to proficiently handle being able to make difficult and risky business decisions. The research from the University of Exeter studied more than two-thousand acquisitional decisions taken by board members at 561 companies listed within the UK. The research discovered that corporate managers who lived abroad or found themselves in different day-to-day cultures were in turn more equipped to make tricky decisions such as whether or not to acquire foreign-based companies.

Grzegorz Trojanowski, Associate Professor in Finance at the University of Exeter Business School and Coauthor of the research explained that managers with an exposure to other countries and cultures have an altered way of viewing potential business within these foreign markets. Managers are more likely to see the opportunities that may present themselves in these foreign markets.

The study also discovered a range of statistics with regard to the demographics of corporate board membership. It was found that company boards in the UK, on average, have four executive members. Most of these executive members are male. 18% of all senior managers were found to be foreigners. In 60% of companies all board members are UK citizens.

The study also found that 22% of executives come from a mixed cultural background or that they have spent significant periods of time at a foreign school or university.

The researchers found a direct link between the international background of board members and the activity of the firm in foreign markets. Grzegorz Trojanowski commented “The more international

the makeup of a board, the more likely the company is to have business activities abroad. The UK is one of the most diverse countries on earth and this cultural mix has a positive impact on the business focus of British firms, which tends to be disproportionately international. Globally there are 40% more first-generation migrants living in the world today than in 1990 meaning the global population is becoming more diverse. Businesses not only need to deal with this diversity, they have an opportunity to tap into this demographic to employ cross-culturally competent employees and managers.”

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The UK is one of the most diverse countries on earth and this cultural mix has a positive impact on business

”

The study identified that characteristic attributes of managers exposed to multiple cultures when young include: confidence making challenging and risky business decisions, confidence

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their decisions in foreign cultures will be successful, being better at understanding and influencing people from diverse cultures, having an innate understanding of subtle differences in business practices and communication styles across cultures, often being part of a global network for support in decision making, being better at naturally ‘bridging’ or communicating with people from different cultures and in the absence of hard facts they will be more comfortable making decisions based on intuition.

Professor Trojanowski says that companies should be able to ascertain how the background of its management may be able to lead to guiding the actual business direction and strategy. Trojanowski comments “By looking at an individual’s international experience, companies can better manage their risk profile.

If they want to be active in foreign markets, they would do well to employ greater numbers of people who have had significant exposure to different cultures. However, if companies wish to have a greater domestic focus, managers with significant international experience might expose the company to unnecessarily risky behaviour.”

advogroup.co.uk | uk’s most successful managers live abroad

The more international the makeup of a board, the more likely the company is to have business activities abroad professor Grzegorz Trojanowski

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advogroup.co.uk | disharmony between business leaders and hr pros

Business leaders and Human resource professionals are united on short term priorities but many issues still cause business dishormony according to research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development cipd.co.uk Senior human resource and wider business leaders are both focused and determined on the short-term business priority of cost management. The challenge for human resources is to balance the tension between responding to short-term cost imperatives and keeping longer-term people issues firmly on the agenda, as these are what will really make the difference to sustainable performance. This is the argument according to one of the latest pieces of research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

The report entitled ‘HR Outlook: A variety of leader perspectives’, studied 369 business leaders and 107 senior human resource professionals.

The research reveals that 64% of business leaders and 71% of human resource professionals cited cost management as their top priority.

skills needs (27% human resource respondents against 18% business leaders).

Peter Cheese, CIPD chief executive, commented on the research “This is a time of real opportunity for human resources. In what is often called the ‘current economic climate’, but However, it was found there was still would more accurately be called a significant cause of disharmony ‘the new normal’, businesses face between the two leadership groups many conflicting priorities, such as it was discovered that human as reducing costs at the same time resource professionals are more likely as trying to increase employee than business leaders to be worrying engagement. This puts human about longer-term people issues. The resource issues at the heart of the most notable of these longer-term business agenda now more than issues being leadership development ever. Business leaders are looking (41% of human resource respondents to human resources for creative against 18% business leaders) and solutions to the challenges the talent development in line with future business faces – but there still needs

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to be a solid and robust business case for action. Using metrics effectively to inform business decision-making is essential.”

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Business leaders are looking to human resources for creative solutions to the challenges the business faces

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advogroup.co.uk | disharmony between business leaders and hr pros The research also discovered that a significant proportion of the business leaders studied remained unconvinced about human resource’s contribution to business performance. These business leaders suggested that human resource professionals are currently failing to fully demonstrate their strategic value as strongly as they could be.

Human resources is largely perceived by business leaders to be more involved in the implementation of business strategy as opposed to actually creating business strategy to begin with. In addition, it was also unearthed that almost a fifth of the business leaders in the research said that they didn’t actually know what human resource’s contribution to business strategy is.

Peter Cheese commented further “It is clear that human resources still has work to do in terms of increasing its visibility and impact and ultimately in demonstrating the organisational value they deliver. Human resources needs to make better use of metrics to look forward, support and inform the business agenda, but human resource leaders must also have the courage, and the business savvy, to effectively challenge and influence business leaders and strategies.”

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Human resources needs to make better use of metrics to look forward, support and inform the business agenda

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The CIPD also conducted a wider survey of 1,152 human resource professionals, with regard to the size and structure of their human resource departments, priority areas of focus for their team, areas for personal development, and how Human resources uses metrics to demonstrate its impact on business performance.

ADVO Group can impact on your business’s short-term and long term objectives by improving staff engagement and reducing ebsenteeism. We are multi awardwinning employee benefit consultants providing expert advice to a wide range of companies. Speak to one of our expert and fully independent advisors today.

Call now on 0845 2578833 or email info@advogroup.co.uk

British Employees Care Passionately About Business Success but Lack the Support to Achieve It news.advogroup.co.uk At the start of another challenging year for the British economy, research from collaborative work management software provider Mindjet encouragingly reveals that over half of British office workers (54%) say they care passionately about helping their employer to be successful and consider their role in this success seriously (49%).

However, after two years of tough economic times some employees to be feeling a little worse for wear... 32% of UK office workers said recognise they need to change their everyday working practices to drive success but 19% are happy to admit that they lack the motivation to do their job to the highest possible standard.

Many businesses set themselves tough goals at the start of this financial year. Further research

by Mindjet shows that FTSE 100 companies are striving hard to achieve operational efficiency, consolidation and growth in emerging markets, amongst others. The results of this research of over 2,000 British office workers, conducted

by Opinium, goes some way to explaining why they’ve struggled to do so. Whilst individuals recognise a need for change, a quarter of those asked said this hadn’t happened because they “haven’t got around to it”. Furthermore, it was reported that

almost a third of managers (30%) know they need to improve the way their team works but struggle to motivate them to do so.

Tim Ohlenburg, Senior Economist, Centre for Economics and Business Research, reflects on UK business performance as we enter the last quarter: “As this research shows, UK businesses have been working towards clear goals.

However, economic growth has been disappointing this year, which has dramatically limited business profits and constrained expansion. The

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Eurozone crisis has also hampered aims to expand in emerging markets.

Unfortunately the outlook for 2013 is still lacklustre. Given that the fourth quarter GDP growth is likely to be negative at the end of this this financial year, businesses are looking at a slow start. At a time when businesses are still striving to do more with less, they need the full support of their employees to do so, which means they need to address the issues identified by Mindjet as a priority.”

Efficient working practices and communication are clearly key to

advogroup.co.uk | british employees lack support

achieving those all-important business goals and making 2013 a more positive year. Aside from motivation, the research also showed that 24% of office workers feel that a lack of resources, senior direction (23%) and inefficient communication (18%) is still holding them back from fulfilling their potential; which in turn means they’re enjoying their job less (27%) and feel stressed (27%).

According to Professor Nelson Phillips, Chair in Strategy and Organisational Behaviour, Imperial College London, “Motivated and engaged employees are at the heart of business success, and there’s no time when this is more true than in tough economic conditions. Yet, it’s just at this moment that employee motivation and engagement drops as their employers’ lack the resources to support and reward them, while

constant cost-cutting and pressure undermines morale and enthusiasm.

The key to turning things around and getting 2013 off on the right foot is to focus on improving and developing working practices and efficient communication. Business leaders must not get bogged down in cost-cutting, but should strive to communicate a vision that moves employees beyond the current downturn and excites them about the future. This two-pronged approach will help re-engage a workforce badly affected by years of recession.”

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Motivated and engaged employees are at the heart of business success

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Chris Norfolk, UK Director at Mindjet, which focuses on helping businesses to generate better ideas and improving how people work together, comments: “Our research shows that UK businesses have spent the last year striving for clear goals.

With so many employees saying they lack resources, senior direction, efficient working practices and communication, alongside crippling economic issues, it’s no wonder many are struggling to achieve these. With all signs pointing towards a slow start in 2013, it’s essential that businesses and individuals address these problems, and consider how they can inspire employees and work smarter to achieve clear business success.”

Find out how ADVO Group can impact on your business’s success by speaking to one of our expert advisors on 0845 2578833.

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advogroup.co.uk | workplace art boosts staff productivity

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advogroup.co.uk | workplace art boosts staff productivity

Industry research reveals that workplace art boosts staff productivity and wellbeing according to latest industry research news.advogroup.co.uk International Art Consultants (IAC) have partnered with British Council for Offices (BCO) to produce a report on the latest trends and Best Practice with regard to art in the workplace, the results of which indicate art in the office can have a significant impact on staff engagement and productivity.

90% of the respondent of the survey said that they display art on their premises and 86% reported that they believe art is more relevant than ever in today’s office environment.

The report was based on a survey with members of the British Council for Offices and was supported by an extensive qualitative research. The report revealed that the incorporation of art into contemporary office spaces not only serves to inspires creativity and improves individual and collective wellbeing amongst employees but it can also significantly increase productivity. It was found that this is especially the case when employees are asked to be involved in the art selection process themselves.

The report shows evidence from a recent research conducted by Exeter University which has proven dramatic improvements in employee productivity when staff members are allowed to determine elements of their own immediate working environment (1).

Art may also help with the issue of employee retention and similarly make the office an environment that

employees may prioritise being in, rather than working from home. In support of this; 93% of the survey’s participants said that they agreed that art makes the workplace a more welcoming environment for employees and visitors to the office.

The report publication, available online on the International Art Consultants’ website, covers a range of argued additional benefits of art within the office environment such as the potentially positive impact on brand reputation and marketing strategy (2). The report also introduces Best Practise guidelines to implement an appropriate art strategy which will enable decision makers to overcome challenges of workspace design and financial constraints.

for your Business” was published ten years ago. British Council for Offices members as well as senior management from independent companies have significantly contributed to the survey with insights and case studies that reflect how their business and workforce have been benefited from a sound and consistent art strategy.

(1) The Identity Realisation Research (IDR) has been conducted by Dr Craig Knight. For more information see www.indentityrealization.com

(2) Majority of respondents think the main reason for art in the workplace is ‘to decorate the office’ (chosen by 82 respondents), followed by ‘to communicate corporate image/values’ (75 respondents). 59 respondents (59% of total sample) Alex Heath, Managing Director said that art was chosen ‘as a financial from International Art Consultants investment’. Most respondents commented saying ‘I believe strongly (over 90%) felt that art ‘makes the in the ability of art to transform the workplace feel more welcoming’; workplace into a more aesthetic, the next most popular answer was creative and productive environment’. ‘stimulates creativity in staff’ (60.8%) International Art Consultants embarked on this project to present Find out how ADVO Group a fresh approach to art in the can impact on your business’s workplace since their last research productivity by speaking to one of our work “Art Collecting: The Benefits expert advisors on 0845 2578833.

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advogroup.co.uk | rolex & apple top the lists for superbrands 2013

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Superbrands have been commissioning independent research to discover the strongest brands within the UK since 1995. Each year Superbrands collects the opinions of leaders within the worlds of business and marketing to publish two definitive lists of the UK’s finest companies.

The first list looks at the best companies operating within the B2C sector and the second list looks at the best B2B brands. The lists for 2013 have officially been published and both see an expansive range of household brand names.

However, there can only be one overall winner for each of the two lists and this year sees Rolex taking the prized number one spot for the B2C list and Apple topping the table for the B2B brands.

rolex & apple top the lists for superbrands 2013 news.advogroup.co.uk

The selection process for this survey is different to most others in that no company make an application to payment to be taken into consideration. Superbrands explain their selection process “The annual Consumer Superbrands survey is independently administered by The Centre for Brand Analysis (TCBA).

TCBA researchers compile lists of the UK’s leading business-to-consumer brands, drawing on a wide range of sources, from sector reports to blogs to public nominations. From the thousands of brands initially considered a final shortlist is created.

For 2013, just under 1,700 brands were shortlisted The shortlist is scored by an independent and voluntary Expert Council, which is assembled and chaired by TCBA’s chief executive. The council is refreshed each year. Bearing in mind the definition of a Consumer Superbrand, the council members individually award each brand a rating from 1–10. Council members are not allowed to score brands with which they have a direct association or are in competition to, nor do they score brands they are unfamiliar with. The lowest scoring brands (approximately 40 per cent) are eliminated after the council has ratified the collective scores. The remaining brands are voted on by the consumers of those brands, accessed via an SSI online panel. For Consumer Superbrands, a nationally representative sample of over 2,900 British adult consumers was surveyed. The number of consumer

advogroup.co.uk | rolex & apple top the lists for superbrands 2013 votes received by each brand determines its position in the final rankings. Only the top 500 brands are deemed to be Consumer Superbrands. All those involved in the voting process bear in mind the following definition ‘A Superbrand has established the finest reputation in its field. It offers customers significant emotional and/or tangible advantages over its competitors, which customers want and recognise.

In addition, the voters are asked to judge brands against three key factors; quality, reliability and distinction.”

“

A Superbrand has established the finest

reputation in its field.

It offers customers significant emotional and/or tangible advantages over its competitors

”

This isn’t the first time Apple have taken one of the top spots for its ranking as a company. Last year, ADVO Group news (news.advogroup. co.uk) reported that Apple had come second in the top twenty most sought after employers amongst LinkedIn members globally, only just missing out on the number one spot to

Google. Similarly, it was also reported last year in ADVO Group news that Apple had scored the number one spot for the category of ‘top rising brand’ in Interbrand’s thirteeth annual best global brands To see the full top twenty results for both the top twenty business and consumer superbrands the full results are below.

If you’re looking to grow your brand, providing benefits to employees is an essentiall way to create a culture of engagement and productivity. To find out how this can fit in with your particular business speak to one of the fully independent and expert advisors at ADVO Group today on 0845 2578833 or email info@advogroup.co.uk.

Business superbrands 2013

Consumer Superbrands 2013

Brand

Category

Brand Rolex

1

Watches

Apple

2

Category

Apple

1

British Airways

2

Technology - Hardware & Equipment Travel & Leisure - Airlines

Google

3

Advertising Solutions

Microsoft

3

Visa

4

British Airways

4

Virgin Atlantic

5

Financial - Credit Cards & Payment Solutions Travel & Leisure - Airlines

Technology - Computer Hardware & Software Technology - Computer Hardware & Software Travel - Airlines

Coca-Cola

5

Drinks - Non Alcoholic

IBM

6

Software & Computer Services

Google

6

Shell

7

Oil & Gas

Hilton

7

Information, Search & Online Services Travel - Hotels & Resorts

Microsoft

8

Software & Computer Services

8

Travel - Airports

London Stock Exchange Group Mastercard

9

9

Food - General

Mercedes-Benz

10

BP

11

Financial - Exchanges & Markets Financial - Credit Cards & Payment Solutions Oil & Gas

Heathrow Airport Kellogg’s

BMW

11

BT

12

Heinz

12

Bosch

13

Telecommunications & Broadband Contruction Tools & Equipment

Automotive - Vehicle Manufacturer Automotive - Vehicle Manufacturer Food - General

BBC

13

Media - TV Stations

Samsung

14

Facebook

14

Social Networking & Dating

FedEx

15

Lego

15

Household - Child Products

Rolls-Royce Group Royal Mail

16

Technology - Hardware & Equipment Courier, Delivery & Postal Postal Services Aerospace & Defence

Disney

16

Household - Child Products

Marks & Spencer 17

Retails - General

PayPal

18

BP

18

Oil & Gas

Glaxo Smith Kline DHL

19

Courier, Delivery & Postal Services Financial - Credit Cards & Payment Solutions Pharmaceuticals

Dulux

19

Household - General

Courier, Delivery & Postal Services

Nescafe

20 Drinks - Coffee & Tea

10

17

20

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 22

clarity is an award-winning employee benefit technology and advo group is the only advisory where you’ll find it

find out more about clarity and how it can affect your business now at advogroup.co.uk

For more information on Advo Group Limited, visit our website www.advogroup.co.uk Advo Group Limited, ADVO House, St Leonards Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 0LS is registered in England (No. 4500663) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

advogroup.co.uk | justine clarabut writes for advo group

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 24

“

advogroup.co.uk | justine clarabut writes for advo group

In addition to helping with performance and concentration research has shown that eating fruit and vegetables helps to reduce employee absenteeism justine clarabut, water fruit box

”

news.advogroup.co.uk Water Fruit Box is one of the partner health and wellbeing specialists for ADVO Group’s new healthylife service.

Justine Clarabut, Water Fruit Box’s Sales & Marketing Director writes exclusively for ADVO Group on how significant the range of effects can be from promoting healthy eating in the office. The most notible of these effects is the reduction in employee absenteeism.

Just one in five Britons eats the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, a poll for World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) suggests! The Department of Health first launched its five-a-day campaign in 2003 but the WCRF says its survey of more than 2,000 UK adults shows people still find achieving that goal difficult. It is urging people to eat “just one more portion” for a healthier diet.

Like it or not, we spend 60% of our life at work and we consume at least a third of our daily food intake while there.

What we eat and drink affects not just our health but our work performance too. If we don’t eat regular well-balanced meals or drink enough water, we may lack energy, suffer headaches or have difficulty

concentrating. Research has shown that the most common time for energy slumps is around 2pm, when workers feel drained and unable to concentrate in the afternoon.

“

What we eat and drink affects not just our health but our work performance too

”

The energy boost of a sugary snack wears off quickly, so reaching for that chocolate bar or packet of crisps just doesn’t suffice! Eating fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts and seeds is a healthy and long-lasting source of energy, ensuring that blood sugar levels remain stable for much longer periods, increasing concentration

and performance. Katie Bennet, Nutritional Therapist, Dip ONT, mBANT at Water Wellbeing says “don’t wait until you are hungry to have a snack- you will probably need one mid-afternoon. Avoid energy drainers such as caffeine, alcohol and high sugar snacks and instead choose foods that keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day. So why not swap that chocolate bar for your fruit with a handful of almonds or your piece of cake for some vegetable sticks and hummus.’

In addition to helping with performance and concentration research has shown that eating fruit and vegetables helps to reduce employee absenteeism. Fruit and vegetables of differing colours contain various mixtures of phytonutrients (protective plant compounds).

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 25

advogroup.co.uk | justine clarabut writes for advo group These can act as powerful antioxidants, protecting the body from harmful free radicals and helping to protect against certain chronic diseases such as cancer.

For example, blueberries contain flavonoids that can improve circulation and help defend against infection. However, variety is fundamental. In addition to these phytonutrients, each type of fruit and vegetables contains its own combination of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Choosing a variety throughout the day will provide a diverse package of essential nutrients.

Being an important source of dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble, fruit and vegetables are virtually fat free and low in calories, so in addition to keeping your digestive system healthy they can help with weight management.

“

In addition to these phytonutrients, each type of fruit and vegetables contains its own combination of vitamins, minerals and fibre

”

Choosing a variety throughout the day will provide a diverse package of essential nutrients. Being an important source of dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble, fruit and vegetables are virtually fat free and low in calories, so in addition to keeping your digestive system healthy they can help with weight management.

“

an employee who fails to exercise or regularly consumes a nutrient-poor diet may indirectly increase absenteeism

basis not only boosts morale but is a great way of advocating the 5-a-day message! Justine Clarabut, Sales and Customer Service Manager at Water Fruit Box (Water for Work So what is the evidence? While it’s obvious that a sick employee is likely and Home Ltd) says “Our customers really look forward to their fresh fruit to be absent, it’s more difficult to delivery. Having a variety of easy to separate out the multitude of causes that contribute to illness and disease. eat fruit readily available in the office encourages staff to eat more fruit and According to the American College in turn helps to fulfil their 5-a-day of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, employee illness and stress requirement! The grab and go can often be attributed to poor health culture that we live in can work with healthy food too!” resulting from unhealthy lifestyle choices. This means an employee who fails to exercise or regularly consumes References World Cancer Research Fund a nutrient-poor diet may indirectly 5 a day NHS Choices increase absenteeism.

American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Health Having fruit (and vegetables!)

Promotion Programs, Workplace delivered to the office on a regular

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 26

”

Modifiable Health Risks and Employee Absenteeism; Aldana and Pronk; 2001.

To find out more about the partnership between Water Fruit Box and ADVO Group’s brand new healthylife service visit healthylife.advogroup.co.uk.

You can also speak to one of our expert and fully independent advisors directly on 0845 2578833 or email ADVO Group at info@advogroup.co.uk.

discover what makes advo stand out from the crowd... speak to one of our expert advisors today!

call now on 0845 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk

For more information on Advo Group Limited, visit our website www.advogroup.co.uk Advo Group Limited, ADVO House, St Leonards Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 0LS is registered in England (No. 4500663) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

advogroup.co.uk | engage your employees with healthylife

engage your employees with ‘healthylife’, the brand new service from advo group healthylife.advogroup.co.uk

Companies within the UK over recent years have started looking more closely at their role in improving the health and wellbeing of their workforce. One of the main initial reasons for doing this has been to reduce the financial pressure caused by sickness absence. However, the actual results of an effective health and wellbeing solution are far wider reaching. Following on from this ADVO Group, are proud to announce the launch of their brand new ‘healthylife’ service. Healthylife works in partnership with your company to design the most effective health and wellness strategy for your employees.

Case studies conducted by various independent company profile, increased productivity, reduced claims organisations have reported the following benefits where within insurances and increased competitiveness and a target bespoke strategy has been implemented; reduced profitability. sickness absence, reduced staff turnover, increased staff satisfaction, increased engagement, improved

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 28

advogroup.co.uk | engage your employees with healthylife Traditionally the design and setup of effective health and wellness strategies have proved costly so larger companies with the budget available have typically lead the way. This is the key area where ADVO Group’s healthylife differentiates itself.

Healthylife has been designed to suit any budget. ADVO Group work with their clients supporting them whether they require a one off trial, an off the shelf – ‘Healthylife Lite’ programme or full a bespoke strategy targeting key areas.

ADVO Group’s healthylife service can provide the following services; highlighting and identifying key areas for improvement, budget setting, underpinning your business case, strategy design, employee engagement, implementation, ongoing management information review and consultancy and change strategy.

Broadly speaking, however, the services provided by Healthylife can be divided into two main areas; ‘Get Healthy’ and ‘Stay Healthy’.

The ‘get healthy’ range of services is all about making those vital initial steps to improving the health and engagement of employees. The get healthy service encompasses a wide range of different areas of health and wellbeing to ensure that the overall health of your workforce is improved on a comprehensive level.

The get healthy services ensure that employees are motivated and fully on board with the new healthbased company ethos and ensure maximum effectiveness. Services included within ‘get healthy’ include dental health, health screening, insomnia and burnout prevention, healthy eating, hydration, cycle-ssage massage, gym membership, smoking cessation, lifestyle consultations, health coaches, wellbeing seminars, occupational health and staff training.

The ‘stay healthy’ range of services includes winter health, dental health, health screening, healthy eating, hydrate, cycle-ssage massage, gym membership, health coaching and occupational health.

To be able to provide such a wide range of health and wellbeing services ADVO Group have partnered with the industry’s leading health and wellbeing specialists such as Denplan, Healthy Performance, Working

Health, Incorpore, Allen Carr, Water for Work and Home and Well-Exec.

A number of these health and wellbeing specialists have expressed their commitment to partnering with ADVO Group for healthylife.

Ben McGannan, Managing Director at Water for Work and Home commented “We are thrilled to be the provider of choice for Fruit, Hydration Solutions and Massage Systems at ADVO Group. We hope our involvement will lead to more long term projects and further involvement in the future.” You can read a full interview with Ben in the edition of Advocate magazine!

Pam Whelan, Corporate Sales Manager at Denplan commented “ADVO approached us with the opportunity to discuss a preferred provider arrangement and how we could support their Health and Wellbeing campaign. During this process we were able to evidence the wealth of knowledge we have in the dental arena and how we could support them in communicating the benefits of a dental plan and how they fit into a health and wellbeing strategy.”

Richard Holmes, Managing Partner, Working Health said “Working Health have partnered with ADVO Healthylife as specialists in employee health and wellbeing. Our joint services include employee lifestyle consultations (face-to-face and via online coaching), health campaigns and team challenges, high impact seminars and workshops, dial up seminars, management training, onsite health and fitness centre management and onsite fitness centre consultancy services. The Working Health ADVO Healthylife partnership provides the experience and expertise to deliver services specifically designed for ADVO Group clients. We understand that no two organisations are alike. Our service delivery structure allows us the flexibility to customise our services to each Client, enabling our Clients to deliver services that are relevant and effective to your people.”

the experience and expertise to deliver services specifically designed for ADVO Group clients

”

Finally, Wayne Campbell, Managing Director, Healthy Performance commented “We were approached by ADVO Group and after meeting them recognised the synergy between our strategy and how we could support client requirements. We are excited about our strategic partnership with ADVO Group and in particular how we both perceive the health and wellbeing industry to grow in the coming months and years. We are very confident we will develop a long term relationship, setting us both aside from our competitors.”

“

We are excited about our strategic partnership with Advo Group and in particular how we both perceive the health and wellbeing industry to grow in the coming months and years

”

At healthylife.advogroup.co.uk you will find all the information you need on this brand new service whether it’s the services on offer or the partners ADVO Group are working with.

The dedicated healthylife website also features information on all of ADVO Group’s social media activity and well as contact info and a news section bringing you all the latest occupational health, human resource and health and wellbeing news from around the globe.

“

The Working Health ADVO Healthylife partnership provides advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 29

advogroup.co.uk | occupational asthma can be prevented

Occupational asthma can be prevented bohs.org

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) have reported that they welcome a recently published report in the journal Thorax which delves into the issue of occupational asthma. The report has brought light to the issue that asthma can in fact be caused by exposure to substances found within the workplace. One of the most compelling statistics from the research is that 9% of people who did not suffer from asthma at all during their childhood had then gone on to develop the disease by the age of 42. The report found that this development of asthma later in life was associated with eighteen different occupations. Four of these were cleaning occupations and another three were found to be likely to use cleaning products.

The comprehensive study which looked at more than 7,000 people suggests that exposure to substances at work is a factor in one in six cases of adult-onset asthma among British people in their mid-fifties.

Many of these cases may be related to past exposure, but the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has already estimated that there are still 1,500 new cases of work-related asthma per year.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 30

Lead researcher on the study Dr Rebecca Ghosh commented by saying “Occupational asthma is widely under-recognised by employers, employees and healthcare professionals. Raising awareness that

Occupational Hygiene Society drew attention to the fact that the law already requires measures to prevent disease at work. Substances that may damage health must be substituted if this is reasonably practicable.

Additionally, in other cases adequate control measures must be used. The easy approach is to go for personal protection rather than other control measures, but personal protection can be ineffective and more expensive in the long run if it is not properly chosen and used. The British Occupational Hygiene Society has argued that it believes occupational asthma and other occupational lung diseases can be prevented through better recognition and control of the risks, through occupational hygiene measures. The British Occupational Hygiene Society has called on government, industry and workers representatives to work with them in raising awareness of occupational lung disease in the United Kingdom, and eradication of new cases through cost-effective control.

The main cover feature of the Autumn 2012 edition of Advocate magazine reported on the fact that 5% of all cancer deaths in the United Kingdom are directly linked to occupational factors. A similarity between this article from the Autumn 2012 edition of Advocate magazine and the aforementioned report on occupational factors leading to the development of asthma is that both talk of the dangers of the inhalation of certain fumes and/or chemicals as being so detrimental to workers’ health. The chemicals most closely associated with the development of asthma are cleaning products whereas the chemicals and fumes most associated with the onset of occupational cancer were found to be asbestos and diesel fumes.

this is an almost entirely preventable disease would be a major step in reducing its incidence.”

“

Occupational asthma is widely underrecognised by employers

”

Dr Ghosh highlighted the disease’s seemingly close association with cleaning agents. However, hundreds of occupational substances are believed to be linked to the development of asthma. These include grain, flour and detergents.

Fine particles of these seemingly harmless substances can be easily be inhaled into the airways. This in turn can cause a reaction which can lead to the onset of the disease.

What both articles show is that occupational factors which can be shown to have a close correlation to the development of a range of very serious illnesses seem to be widespread across a range of industries. More alarmingly still, many of the workers within these industries seem to be unable to get the occupational protection that they need and a lack of awareness from employers may often be an issue to contend with.

Stay up to date with all the latest occupational health news by subscribing to the ADVO Group news section at news.advogroup.co.uk/ subscribe.

A spokesperson for the British

advocate spring 2013| advogroup.co.uk | 31

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview, wayne campbell, healthy performance

“

if we all just had 10% of an olympic athlete’s drive then the uk’s obesity levels would be destroyed wayne campbell healthy performance healthyperformance.co.uk

”

Healthy Performance are one of the leading health and wellbeing providers in the UK delivering a range of health and wellbeing services including onsite health screening, educational workshops, health events, stress audits and other related services. They are also one of the partner companies for ADVO Group’s new healthylife service. We caught up with Healthy Performance’s Managing Director Wayne Campbell to discuss the development of the company since its establishment in 2007, the new healthylife partnership with ADVO Group and the essential first steps to improving fitness.

What is it that makes Healthy Performance unique?

We are passionate about, and specialise in employee health and wellbeing – this is one of the reasons we are unique. We are also different from other providers from the way we deliver our services, to how we support clients from the initial planning phase through to the event evaluation. We also review our own performance and align customer feedback with our own development.

How well educated do you think today’s workforce its with regard to the correlation between good health and productivity?

Education is the key to improving health and wellbeing and awareness of health and wellbeing has grown hugely over the last 2-3 years. Five years ago this wasn’t the case and it was difficult to find companies who were investing in this area whereas nowadays it’s almost seen to be the norm for any employer of choice.

What is the most popular/inAs there are so many benefits to demand service you currently improved employee health (more offer to clients? energy, motivation, productivity, being more positive, focused etc) it Onsite Health Screening. makes commercial sense to invest in Organisations are now fully aware of health and wellbeing and additional the impact that health and wellbeing research into productivity, return on has in the workplace and health investment and other benefits makes screening is convenient, cost effective the business case very strong. and can be very powerful. We carry out the vast majority of our screening You recently joined forces with onsite making the process very ADVO Group as part of the simple to organise (for the client) health life service. Please tell and companies like to implement us about your involvement with initiatives that are both popular and this new service. engaging.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 32

We were approached by ADVO Group and after meeting them recognised the synergy between our strategy and how we could support client requirements. We are excited about our strategic partnership with ADVO Group and in particular how we both perceive the health and wellbeing industry to grow in the coming months and years. We are very confident we will develop a long term relationship, setting us both aside from our competitors.

Are there any industries or sectors that tend to be particularly good or bad when it comes to recognising the issue of employee health and wellbeing?

I don’t think there is a specific industry or sector where they recognise health and wellbeing more than others, it tends to be more about the individual company and their culture, ethics and strategy. Whilst we focus on 2 or 3 specific sectors this is simply to channel our energy and focus, however our client portfolio covers almost every sector!

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview, wayne campbell, healthy performance

advocate spring 2013| advogroup.co.uk | 33

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview, wayne campbell, healthy performance

“

I don’t think there is a specific industry or sector where they recognise health and wellbeing more than others, it tends to be more about the individual company and their culture

”

What do you think is the easiest first step employees could take in an effort to improve their fitness level?

Literally making the first step is the easiest – it’s not about turning employees into Olympic athletes, it’s about making small changes that make a positive difference. So just getting out and doing something you enjoy that raises your heart rate is effective. If it doesn’t raise your heart rate then it’s not effective! Many things can be done at home without the need to go to the gym and we spend time educating employees about workouts they can do from home or a hotel room!

What do you think is most commonly neglected aspect of employee health awareness and why do you think this is the case?

The one that often stands out is hydration levels and this tends to be neglected as it’s not fully understood.

We do a lot of work around promoting hydration both in our health checks and health promotion and usually people don’t understand the impact of poor hydration (headaches, fatigue and poor performance to name three!). We have a great way to promote this that tends to work very well! Obviously cholesterol and diabetes are up there too as many people have never had a check and there are clear health risks if you have an unhealthy level!

What are the future plans for the company?

“

there are so many benefits to improved employee health... more energy, motivation, productivity, being more positive, focused

”

by 2015. The market is growing at a good rate and our strategic partnerships play a key part in our development.

How has the company changed and evolved since its establishment?

Well five years ago it started with We are growing in alignment with our just me, an idea and a piece of paper strategy to be ‘The Supplier of Choice’ and now we have a great team who for health and wellbeing services all share the same vision and passion

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 34

for health and wellbeing. It’s been a really tough journey, especially the first 2-3 years when I was going weeks with people saying they wouldn’t be interested in the concept.

Fortunately my motivation, drive and vision has always been very clear and strong and we are now in a really good place, with a solid foundation, efficient systems, great people and a huge opportunity to develop in the future.

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview, wayne campbell, healthy performance

“

many things can be done at home without the need to go to the gym and we spend time educating employees about workouts they can do from home or a hotel room

�

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 35

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview, wayne campbell, healthy performance What does your typical day at Healthy Performance involve?

I’m really lucky as it varies every day and this is one of the best things about my job! Some days I’m office based, others I’m staying away in hotels all over the UK but my favourite part is when I’m delivering workshops, organising

client projects onsite and making a difference to people. This is the whole reason for setting up Healthy Performance, to help people choose a healthier lifestyle and seeing them annually having made changes is very humbling.

recommend people attend?

There are loads of monthly health events organised across the UK that people can get involved in. We’ve all seen Movember for men in November, for women, start thinking about ‘Race for Life’ in May/June/ What upcoming health and well- July, a great way to get active! I’m being events for 2013 would you sure it won’t be long before every month has a nationally recognised health promotional event.

What kind of information can we expect to find in the Healthy Performance blog?

“

if we all had just 10% of an Olympic athlete’s drive then the UK’s obesity levels would be destroyed!

”

Well last year I made the big decision to stop exercising for 4 months and then keep a log of my diary and diet to show how easy it is to lose weight. It wasn’t very easy though as I kept becoming ill which just goes to show that unhealthy people become ill more frequently. We try and be a little different and are about to refresh our website (Feb 2013) to include more stories, articles and tips for improving health and wellbeing.

Do you think the momentum to increase fitness that followed the Olympics last year will still be able to carry through into 2013?

The Olympics were totally amazing with the athletes setting an incredible example of dedication, desire and motivation. If we all had just 10% of an Olympic athlete’s drive then the UK’s obesity levels would be destroyed! With companies now focusing on wellbeing much more, I don’t see any reason why the momentum won’t continue however we find everyone is motivated differently and this is the key to improving fitness. January is great for motivation but people need an incentive to maintain their fitness all year round.

To find out more about Wayne’s and Healthy Performance’s involvement with ADVO Group’s ‘healthylife’ service visit healthylife.advogroup.co.uk.

You can also speak to one of ADVO Group’s expert and independent advisors today on 0845 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 36

dont miss the next copy of advocate magazine subscribe for free now!

subscribe for free now at issuu.com/advogroup

For more information on Advo Group Limited, visit our website www.advogroup.co.uk Advo Group Limited, ADVO House, St Leonards Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 0LS is registered in England (No. 4500663) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

advogroup.co.uk | health risks of eating lunch at the desk

BBC reports on the health risks of office workers eating lunch while at the desk 54% of those surveyed regularly work through their lunch break bbc.co.uk The BBC website has recently reported on the health risks involved with eating lunch whilst remaining stuck to the desk in the workplace. From the multitude of harmful bacteria that can linger on employees’ desks to the lack of physical exercise, the report highlights a wide range of different health risks involved with remaining at the desk during employees’ lunch breaks.

The highlighting of this occupational issue comes from research which was conducted for BBC Breakfast (ComRes Poll for BBC Breakfast, January 2013). The study looked at almost six hundred office workers and alarmingly found that 54% said that they regularly worked through their lunch hour. In addition, it was found that 53% believed there was a widespread company culture of colleagues also eating through their lunch breaks. 20% of those studied also commented that they in fact felt under pressure not to take a proper lunch break.

Dietician, Alison Clark, lent her expert insight to the results of the findings and commented “It’s really important to try and get away from the workplace and not to eat whilst your answering emails and report writing because then that leads to what we call mindless eating, so you’re not really concentrating on way you’re consuming and that can lead to weight gain. The second thing is that it’s important to get out in the fresh air and to be exposed to sun rays. Particularly in the summer

months because that’s how our bodies might be quite warm from all the make vitamin D, through the reaction hard work you’re doing” of sunlight on our skin.”

The report showed the positive effect of being able to get employees away from their desks for lunch by looking at Ipswich Building Society, a company which has made a real effort to stop desk-bound lunches.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive at Ipswich Building Society commented “We’ve seen since we’ve been doing a lot of this work a significant drop in sickness absence which is good for the business, a significant reduction in staff turnover which again saves us a lot of money and customer satisfaction levels are up so to me it’s a win-win for everyone.”

“

it’s important to get out in the fresh air and to be exposed to sun rays. Particularly in the summer months because that’s how our bodies make vitamin D through the reaction of sunlight on our skin

”

The BBC also looked at some of the more hidden health risks that can come into play when eating our lunches at our desks. Dr Ron Cutler from Queen Mary University commented “Any bacteria transferred from faeces onto your keyboard you’re feeding and if you’re eating a sweet and crunching it onto your keyboard then they’re going to love that. Especially since the keyboard

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 38

To view the full report by the BBC simply visit this story on the ADVO Group news section at http://bit.ly/YL1bPk Make sure you never miss the latest occupational health news by subscribing to the ADVO Group news section for FREE now at news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe.

“

It’s really important to try and get away from the workplace and not to eat whilst your answering emails and report writing because then that leads to what we call mindless eating alison clarke, dietician

”

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 39

advogroup.co.uk | london employers craete healthier workplaces

London employers create healthier workplaces news.advogroup.co.uk

Creating healthier, happier staff is the goal of a group of London employers who have recently become the first recipients of the Healthy Workplace Awards. Fourteen organisations across London signed up to the London Healthy Workplace Charter, which has been set up by the Greater London Authority to help employers wanting to create healthier workplaces for their staff. An average London firm of 250 employees loses around £250,000 a year due to ill health calculated by sickness absence, whilst workers who are physically active take 27 per cent fewer sick days than their non-physically active counterparts. 17.3 million working days are lost due to alcohol in England, including both dependent and non-dependent drinkers.

Organisations involved in the initial pilot for the London Healthy Workplace Charter included Middlesex University, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, The Royal Borough of Greenwich and Hostelbookers.com. The Charter provides a framework as well as simple ideas to help employers wanting to create a healthier environment for their staff.

Measures that participating organisations introduced included encouraging staff to get more active, for example by using the stairs at work rather than the lift, cycling to work, or getting off the bus a few stops earlier. Some offered subsidised gym memberships, massage in the workplace and even fresh fruit for staff. Other activities included setting up stop smoking groups and developing alcohol and mental health

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 40

policies.

One organisation found that over a two year period it reduced absence through sickness from 6.5 per cent to 3.5 percent. Another saw staff turnover reduce from 40 per cent to 20 per cent.

Deputy Mayor for London Victoria Borwick commented: ‘Improving the way we think about health, as

advogroup.co.uk | london employers craete healthier workplaces

employers and as staff, has obvious personal benefits, but it also can also have a positive impact on organisations, including the financial bottom line. If people are fitter and healthier they are less likely to take time off and evidence shows it can reduce staff turnover as well.

Whether in the public or private sector, our hope is that signing up to the London Healthy Workplace Charter and bringing in a few simple measures will boost the performance of organisations and the health of Londoners.’

“

If people are fitter and healthier they are

less likely to take time off and evidence shows it can reduce staff turnover as well

”

London boroughs that took part in the pilot were: Royal Borough of Kingston, Royal Borough of Greenwich, City of London, Westminster, Southwark, Barking and Dagenham and Lewisham.

The awards were presented at City Hall by Professor Dame Carol Black, Expert Adviser on Health and Work to the Department of Health and Dr Marianne Dyer who led the award winning occupational health project at the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Park and Village.

The London Healthy Workplace Charter is coordinated by the Greater London Authority working in partnership with London borough public health and environmental health teams that can offer local advice and support. The GLA has to date been working with seven London Never miss the latest occupational boroughs and the aim is to increase health news by subscribing to the numbers across London as the ADVO Group news section at programme expands. news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 41

advogroup.co.uk |a standing desk can burn easy calories

adopting winston churchill’s standing desk can burn tens of thousands of calories according to research from university of chester chester.ac.uk An exercise scientist from the University of Chester has made a healthy start to his new university semester by adopting a working system synonymous with famous figures such as Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, Thomas Jefferson and Donald Rumsfeld. Dr John Buckley, from the Department of Clinical Sciences and Nutrition at the University of Chester has adopted the ‘standing desk’; a waist high podium-like desk that you stand at to carry out normal office work. The standing desk may not seem like the most pleasant or relaxing method of working but it is believed that it may be the key easily burning an abundance of extra calories.

Dr John Buckley has managed to salvage one of the old oak lecterns at his University to use as a makeshift standing desk. Through the application of his expert knowledge of human physiology, Dr Buckley has calculated that by working at his new standing desk for as little as three hours a day, he will burn an extra 144 calories compared to sitting at his desk and with no change to his job or leisure time activities. The significance of these extra calories being burnt really becomes highlighted when looking at the cumulative effect over a year.

It is believed that over the course of a year, this new working style will equate to an incredible 30,000 calories which is equivalent to an unbelievable eight pounds of human fat.

Dr Buckley, Reader of Applied Exercise Science in Health and lead Lecturer for the University’s MSc in Cardiovascular Rehabilitation, commented “This is the perfect way for any office-bound worker to achieve the typical New Year’s resolution of wanting to lose half a stone without changing anything else – how easy is that?”

It was a colleague of Dr Buckley that brought his attention to the fact that Ernest Hemingway also used a standing desk in his day-to-day work. Dr Buckley commented “I had no idea Hemingway did this when I decided to use the standing desk, but apparently he worked this way from the very beginning, so hopefully I’m in good company.”

Dr Buckley’s work as a national leader in physical activity and exercise science has included being part of a special advisory group to England’s Chief Medical Officer. At a key meeting he attended in Whitehall, issues of the workplace design, transport and the built environment (not sport) were designated as key culprits in the cause of obesity.

This really highlights the enormous difference that the standing desk could potentially make to make to the health of the workforce as a whole.

He added: “In the past 50 years, sports and exercise participation have remained at least the same, so it is sedentary behaviours such as sitting at a desk and nutrition which are the key factors causing the typical annual increase in most people’s waistlines.”

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 42

“

It is sedentary behaviours such as sitting at a desk and nutrition which are the key factors causing the typical annual increase in most people’s waistlines

”

Dr Buckley, whose office is based in a seven-storey building on the University’s Main Campus in Chester, always tries to make the effort to take the stairs to his office and encourages others to do the same wherever and whenever they can as well. He added: “It’s little changes in behaviour such as this, or standing at your desk, that can add up to make quite a big difference to your health.”

To find out about a wide ranging appraoch to improving the health of your employees speak to one of the expert and fully independent advisors at ADVO Group on 0845 2578833 or email info@advogroup.co.uk.

advogroup.co.uk | thanks for reading advogroup.co.uk | a standing desk can burn easy calories

“

This is the perfect way for any office-bound worker to achieve the typical New Year’s resolution of wanting to lose half a stone without changing anything else – how easy is that?

”

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advogroup.co.uk | linkedin’s most sought after employers

defibrillator survey raises workplace heart attack concerns iosh.co.uk The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), one of the leading bodies on health and safety, recently commissioned a survey of 1,000 business decision-makers across the UK and found that 513 did not have a potentially lifesaving defibrillator at work. Almost two thirds of those who said that they did not have there equipment came from medium to very large companies.

In support of National Heart Month, this February, IOSH is encouraging companies to consider whether they should install a defibrillator, which re-starts the heart using an electric shock.

IOSH research and information services manager Jane White commented “We want businesses to take a good look at the number of employees they have, their

demographics and the kind of sector they work in, to assess whether they should get a defibrillator on-site.”

Currently, 30,000 people in the UK each year have a cardiac arrest out of hospital and NHS data shows just 18.5 per cent of them survive.

American statistics also show 13 per cent of workplace fatalities result from cardiac arrest.

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Ms White further commented “Using a defibrillator within the first few minutes after collapse gives the best chance of saving a life – it can increase survival rates by as much as 75 per cent. This just proves to businesses how important it is to have the equipment on-site.”

Of the 327 respondents from small companies who took the poll, 60.2

advogroup.co.uk | workplace heart attack concerns concerned. Devices cost around £1,000 – can big companies with healthy turnovers afford not to have one? If someone suffers a cardiac arrest at work and does not survive, it is devastating for their family, friends and workmates and it can also cause a great deal of stress for the person giving CPR. Companies also need to consider the impact of losing a member of staff on their fellow employees, factoring in the cost of down-time, counselling and any replacement or training of staff. The message here is not only an ethical one, it also has financial implications.

Of course, a defibrillator is good health and safety practice because it saves lives, but it also makes sound business sense.”

“

Companies also need to consider the impact of losing a member of staff on their fellow employees, factoring in the cost of down-time, counselling and any replacement or training of staff

”

Inmarsat is the world’s leading provider of global satellite communication services. The company has 1,700 staff and a number of additional contractors. In 2009 it installed two defibrillators in its UK headquarters. This was following an incident of a 40-yearold contractor suffered a cardiac arrest in the office. Lloydeth Newell, Inmarsat health and safety manager, commented “It was hard per cent said they didn’t have a to argue the case for a defibrillator defibrillator. And 316 of the total 513 with management initially, due to of those who said they didn’t have the concerns about liability and the fact equipment came from medium, large emergency services can, in theory, and very large companies. When reach us within six minutes. But those who had replied ‘no’ in the one of our contractors had a cardiac survey were asked why their company arrest at his desk while he was talking had not got a defibrillator, 45 said it to colleagues and tragically, he was hadn’t even occurred to them, 56 felt pronounced dead in hospital half an there was no need, 34 said they had hour later. It changed everything and too few staff and 31 put it down to I got permission straight from the top cost. to assess how many defibrillators we needed and put them in place. Staff Ms White added “This is actually can volunteer to be trained in how worrying news for us, especially to use a defibrillator, but there’s no where the larger companies are legal requirement and they’re really

easy to use. We now consider it a vital piece of lifesaving equipment that will make a difference if we experience a similar situation again.”

There were a number of interesting trends from the research poll.

Looking at the poll results by sector, education fared the worst, as 61 out of 86 people did not have a defibrillator at work. And two thirds of those in retail said they hadn’t got one – only 20 out of 58 had. Nearly 44 per cent of the respondents from an office environment had a defibrillator.

But the picture improved with manufacturing and engineering industries, where 65 per cent had the device, amounting to 62 out of 95.

Ms White commented “We want smaller companies to look beyond sheer employee numbers when assessing the need for a defibrillator.

They might be a school with hundreds of pupils, a care facility with atrisk patients, or a shop or venue with a larger number of visitors or customers – these circumstances might make a big difference to the survival chances of someone having a cardiac arrest on-site. And if they are worried about cost, there is a lot of help out there for those that think they have a need.”

St John Ambulance offers workplace first aid training, including how to use defibrillators. Clive James, St John Ambulance training and development officer, commented “Prompt first aid and use of a defibrillator can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved. Defibrillators detect if a casualty’s heart rhythm needs shocking, so they can’t shock anyone that doesn’t need it. But ultimately a training course will give help to give you the confidence to use one.

It’s important to understand that a person who has had a cardiac arrest will die if they don’t receive emergency treatment, so prompt CPR and use of a defibrillator will give them that chance to survive.”

To find out about a wide ranging appraoch to improving the health of your employees speak to one of the expert and fully independent advisors at ADVO Group on 0845 2578833 or email info@advogroup.co.uk.

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advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with ben mcgannan, water for work & home

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 46

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with ben mcgannan, water for work & home

“

we are thrilled to be the provider of choice for fruit, hydration solutions and massage systems at advo group ben mcgannan water for work and home

”

waterforwork.co.uk Hydration experts Water for Work and Home are the latest health and wellbeing provider to join forces with ADVO Group for the new healthylife service. In the latest in our exclusive interview series we talk to Water for Work and Home Managing Director Ben McGannan to discuss why the issue of hydration is so important to today’s offices, their partnership with ADVO Group on the healthylife service, their charity work and much more.

What is it that makes the business unique?

We have long been experts in hydration and know only too well the impact being dehydrated can have on our physical and mental wellbeing.

Understanding that prevention is better than cure and that by engaging people – as individuals, at work and in the community – we can improve our general health and wellbeing, has been a driving force in our development as a business. We are all passionate about what we do, want to give excellent service, be innovative and back up what we do with both science and real life examples.

What is the most popular/indemand service you currently offer to clients? Why do you think this is?

Our fruit and vegetable delivery service grew rapidly in 2012; delivering high quality produce

at affordable prices direct to the workplace provides both a great health incentive for staff whilst boosting productivity and wellbeing.

We are all becoming a little wiser when it comes to the impact of improved health and wellbeing and for that reason our interactive health check kiosk has once again proven to be our most popular service. We are seeing more and more organisations offering this for their staff to engage them in health and wellbeing. We conducted some 80,000 health checks last year – over 1500 a week!

You recently joined forces with ADVO Group as part of the health life service. Please tell us about your involvement with this new service.

We are thrilled to be the provider of choice for Fruit, Hydration Solutions and Massage Systems at ADVO Group. We hope our involvement

will lead to more long term projects and further involvement in the future.

Why is the issue of hydration so important to today’s offices?

Water is an essential nutrient to life.

Adequate hydration is the key to short and long term wellbeing and is needed for almost every bodily function. Even mild dehydration affects both mental and physical performance: just 2% dehydration can cause a 20% reduction in performance in physical and cognitive activities.

Keeping one’s body hydrated is essential, particularly when working in varied conditions and needing to concentrate for long periods of time.

Drinking little and often throughout the day can help us stay on track and keep alert.

It’s ironic that water is very much

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 47

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with ben mcgannan, water for work & home all around us when we are at work, yet our research shows us that some 71% of people need at least one more cup of water a day to be adequately hydrated.

In a world where many of us are constantly trying to juggle a hectic work schedule, thirst signals are often ignored and such common signals of dehydration as fatigue, lack of focus or concentration, headaches, sleepiness and infrequent bathroom breaks may be overlooked. The consequence? If you become even mildly dehydrated, it can directly affect your ability to perform at your best.

How well educated do you think today’s workforce with regard to the correlation between good health and productivity?

Most wellbeing messages are common sense and the majority of us understand them. I believe what we really have to focus on is helping people make better lifestyle choices; a lot of people take their health for granted, this is why we are involved with schools, community groups as well as employers to innovate in ‘health engagement’.

We believe that by involvement at schools with ‘We Love Water’ and ‘We Love Food’ we can plant the seeds for future generations and by working closely with, for example employers, we can begin to make a positive change.

Are there any industries or sectors that tend to be particularly good or bad when it comes to recognising the issue of employee health and wellbeing?

Because of the breadth of our client base we are uniquely placed to have a complete picture of most sectors and wouldn’t say that any one sector is worse than any other. The problems in our view, are uniform across the population. For example, our research shows that 73% of males and 62% of women had higher body fat content than is recommended.

“

our research shows us that some 71% of people need at least one more cup of water a day to be adequately hydrated

”

address their own unique health and wellbeing journey.

What do you think is most commonly neglected aspect of employee health awareness and why do you think this is the case?

Notwithstanding hydration which I have already mentioned, there is a serious issue with the awareness of ‘Hypertension’ or high blood Clearly the more sedentary your job or lifestyle is, the more likely you are pressure. to encounter issues with weight, body High blood pressure is dangerous as fat content, blood pressure etc. But by it has few or no symptoms – a third spending just 7 minutes on our health of patients with hypertension don’t check kiosk, individuals can begin to know they have it. It contributes

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 48

to the risk of heart disease and strokes and can also result in other conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease and blindness.

Early awareness and treatment can reduce the risks to health considerably – the interactive health checking kiosk makes this really easy; the test history facility allows individuals to monitor and make improvements over time.

We notice you have focused on providing hydration education and resources to school children. Please tell us some more about this.

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with ben mcgannan, water for work & home

“

High blood pressure is dangerous as it has few or no symptoms

The ‘We Love Water’ and ‘We Love Food’ education packages engage children and young people to learn about the importance of hydration and healthy eating.

The drama based sessions are developed specifically for each Key Stage and are designed to teach individuals to adopt hydration and healthy eating as a life skill at home and at school. These are supported by activity sheets, stickers and classroom resources.

We have also created a fantastic production called ‘Roman and Julene’. Two actors deliver a 10 part musical about a village that has run out of water. ‘Shakespeare-esque’ comedy, love, loss and moral-fuelled action awaits the audience.

Theatre removes us from our ‘everyday’ and transports us to a place guided by the actors we are watching.

While confronting and challenging us to imagine a new world, our minds are open to new thoughts and information.

Few other platforms provide such a rich environment for conscious and unconscious learning; in our experience, this form of engagement is one of our most powerful tools in delivering important wellbeing messages.

It’s so important to inspire and educate the next generation and create long term healthy lifestyles for the future.

”

Please tell us some more about for all the updates! your work with the Giving Africa charity.

What are the future plans for the company?

Each year we focus on a chosen charity and in 2012 we supported We are currently going through a Giving Africa – a unique organisation rebranding exercise, having grown focused on building schools for the water cooler side through merger children in Burkina Faso. Our and acquisition. This has led to the charity efforts ranged from climbing birth of our new wellbeing brand Kilimanjaro to selling healthy ‘Wellbeing People’, replacing ‘Water breakfast bars in the office. The Wellbeing’. money raised has gone towards building a water well for a school and Wellbeing People launched January community which will provide for so keep an eye out for our new over 10,000 people. website www.wellbeingpeople.com and Wellbeing Directory.

This year we are working with the British Heart Foundation and in How has the company particular we are looking forward changed and evolved since its to participating and supporting the establishment?

London to Brighton Bike Ride.

We have changed beyond all What kind of information can recognition and are really proud we expect to find on the Water with what we have achieved over the Wellbeing company Twitter last 35 years: Developing from an feed? engineering company in the bottling trade to water coolers, then from We try to keep the Twitter feed water coolers to Wellbeing and all the packed full of interesting wellbeing products and services that stem from ‘chirps’ as well as keeping our it, such as Water Fruit Box. followers up to date on current wellbeing affairs and events. Last All sides of the business now focus year we developed a goal setting tool from the development of our unique as a free download to ride buzz that concept of Engaged Prevention® the fabulous 2012 Olympics and which aims to empower individuals Paralympics gave us. to make positive choices around their own health and wellbeing.

The Wellbeing Symposium 2013 is our biggest annual event held For all the latest industry interviews in November, this will once again subscribe to the ADVO Group news showcase all of the work that we do section at and provide a forum for innovation news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe. and debate – keep an eye on the feed

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 49

advogroup.co.uk | mps tweet in the fight against heart disease

MPs tweet in the fight against heart disease bhf.org.uk

Almost fifty members of parliament recently accepted a challenge from the British Heart Foundation in the first ever British Heart Foundation ‘tweet-off’. The social media driven event was to allow members of parliament to show their support for National Heart Month which took place throughout February.

Members of parliament across the country were invited by the British Heart Foundation to a tweet-off at Westminster so they could show off their support to the followers of their Twitter accounts. Forty-nine MPs took up the challenge and came along to the Houses of Parliament to take a picture of themselves ‘Rocking Up In Red’. The ‘Rock Up In Red’ campaign has seen people up and down the country wearing red in support of National Heart Month.

The politicians which took part in the campaign were then encouraged by

the British Heart Foundation to tweet taking part if the first ever British their picture, asking their followers to Heart Foundation ‘Tweet-off’. I am retweet. proud of the Harrogate constituents for supporting National Heart Month Andrew Jones, Harrowgate and and as a result, helping me to win the Knaresborough MP, was announced Tweet-Off. I hope that more people as the campaign’s tweet-off winner will be encouraged to join in these with 56 retweets. Luciana Berger MP activities to help the British Heart was a close second with 51 retweets, Foundation to continue their vital, while Andrew Gwynne MP took life-saving work.” bronze with 30 retweets. Andrew Andrew Jones also later tweeted Jones commented on taking part in “Thanks to all who RT’ed - more RTs the tweet-off “I am pleased to help than any MP. I’ve won @TheBHF raise awareness of heart disease tweet off. Let’s give heart disease the during National Heart Month by boot.#rockupinred.”

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 50

advogroup.co.uk | mps tweet in the fight against heart disease

“

I hope that more people will be encouraged to join in these activities to help the British Heart Foundation to continue their vital, life-saving work

”

Louise Parkes, Fundraising Director at the British Heart Foundation commented “National Heart Month

is a great opportunity for everyone to think about how many lives are affected by heart disease. We offer our heartfelt thanks to Andrew for so generously dedicating his time and energy to help raise awareness of heart disease and help us continue our fight for every heartbeat”.

The British Heart Foundation are known for hosting a range of events throughout the year to raise awareness and fund for the work that they do. Later on this year many will take their bicycles to the capital city to start the fifty-four mile ride down to Brighton as part of one of the British Heart Foundations biggest annual events. There are also a range

of other upcoming events including the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, the Edinburgh Marathon and the Chatsworth Walk to name but a few.

For more information on the British Heart Foundation visit the official website at bhf.org.uk.

For all the latest health news news subscribe to the ADVO Group news section for FREE now at news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe.

To find out providing care for your employees’ health speak to one of the expert and independent advisors at ADVO Group on 0845 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk.

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 51

advogroup.co.uk | is open referral pmi right for employers?

Is open-referral private medical insurance right for employers? advo group’s colin boxall gives his expert industry insight to employee benefits magazine! news.advogroup.co.uk Colin Boxall, Director at ADVO Group recently appeared in employeebenefits.co.uk online magazine answering the question ‘is open-referral private medical insurance right for employers?’. Read on below to find out what Colin had to say.

“We are all suspicious of change when an insurer tells us it is for our own good. In such situations, perception can take over from reality.

to the best specialists and quality control, while retaining some choice.

Others take an opposite stance: that private medical insurance is about choice, and removing choice ADVO Group supports the concept undermines these principles. They of open referral, but with choice are uncomfortable with the insurer, retained. Our job is to listen, and not the doctor, deciding what is understand and advise, including best. Employers that want choice will, telling employers things they may not understandably, have to pay more. want to hear.

It also appears that, with little time to educate staff before implementation and lack of support from existing intermediaries, employees can view open referral as a reduction in cover.

“

ADVO Group supports the concept of open referral, but with choice retained. Our job is to listen, understand and advise, including telling employers things they may not want to hear

”

Our [employer] clients’ view of open referral is in two camps. The first is the positive: seeing sustainability, cost control, no shortfalls, access

With no immediate expectation of an improvement in risk profiles for many smaller organisations, where renewal drivers are still typically larger claims, [the provider] will struggle to justify the changes.

ADVO Group sees open referral as a refreshing, solution to the problem of rising premiums. It offers reduced claims spend, aiding price stability but still retaining quality of care.

Although choice has always played a huge part in private medical insurance, the main concern should

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 52

be the correct treatment path.

Employers will reap the rewards of open referral over the coming years, but it is no quick fix.”

Colin has appeared in a range of industry magazines and websites before offering his expert insight.

Last year saw Colin write for Cover Magazine’s July case study discussing the best private medical insurance options for individuals with preexisting heart conditions. You can read that article on the following link http://bit.ly/ZksEti. For all the latest industry discussion and expert viewpoints make sure to subscribe to the ADVO Group news section for free at news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe.

To find out more about ADVO Group and the services we can offer your business speak to one of our expert and fully independent advisors today on 0845 2578833 or email us at info@advogroup.co.uk.

advogroup.co.uk | is open referral pmi right for employers?

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 52

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with lucy irvine, advo group

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 54

“

advogroup.co.uk | exclusive interview with lucy irvine, advo group

developments to our online system will see great improvements for clients lucy irvine, advo group

”

issuu.com/advogroup

ADVO Group’s Lucy Irvine was recently awarded the company’s ‘Best of Best’ title. We caught up with Lucy to ask her what the most significant developments for the company were in 2013, what 2013 has in store for both ADVO Group and the wider market as a whole and much more.

What is your role at ADVO Group and what does this involve?

As one of 6 Corporate Account Managers at ADVO I am responsible for both the renewals and day-today running of the larger Corporate Accounts. The role is varied as it includes consulting on several employee benefit policies; primarily UK Health Insurance however more recently Group Risk policies.

Do you think the values that led to the ‘Best of Best’ title are at the heart of ADVO Group as a whole?

2012 was an incredibly busy year for ADVO Group. We were successful in bringing on board some fantastic new business Clients and continued with our impressive retention rate. With that though bought heavy workloads for all staff, however the key objective for all departments remained to continue delivering excellent customer service. To be awarded with ADVO’s ‘Best of the Best’ title is really rewarding and a great incentive for staff throughout the year.

What do you think stands ADVO Group apart from other brokers and consultancies in the market?

I believe our staff and technology are what truly sets ADVO apart from the rest. Our wide variety of services we offer allows us to be as

flexible as the Client needs and this is supported by our market-leading online system ‘Clarity’. To be able to offer our Clients live access to policy information and total reward statements has helped to retain several Clients when faced with some difficult renewals. By allocating each Client a dedicated Account Manager means the transition from renewal through to the remainder of the year is seamless.

change will be for the private medical insurance and/or employee benefit market this year? Will this be from an insurer, change in government policy etc?

Last year saw the introduction of Bupa’s Open Referral process with several other insurers following suit. This year we will get to see how this has impacted on the claims performance of schemes and in turn, What projects or developments the pricing of their renewals going either with your own work or forward. The continued roll out of with ADVO Group as a whole are auto-enrolment will no doubt have you most looking forward to for an effect on employee benefits for 2013? smaller companies so this year we will be working hard to find the best The continued developments to our solution for our SME clients. online system will see some great improvements for Clients this year.

If you could recommend people I am most looking forward to the take a look at just one of our launch of our new product ‘ADVO social media channels which Healthylife’ which has been designed one would you suggest and why? to encourage employees to engage in a healthy lifestyle.

ADVO’s Twitter account is constantly updated with news and is a great way What do you think the most of keeping up to date with what’s significant development for the going on in the market. Our LinkedIn company was in 2012? forums are also a great way for both insurers and clients alike to get In 2012 ADVO acquired it’s 3rd involved in the latest discussions.

Intermediary, Health Care Plus.

Having worked for ADVO Group What ways can people get in for over 5 years it’s really exciting touch with you, e.g. company to see how the company has grown phone number, linkedin etc? and continues to look for new opportunities. I’m looking forward to I can be contacted via email, mobile seeing what 2013 holds for ADVO! or linked in (lirvine@advogroup. co.uk, 07957 367933).

What do you think the biggest

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advogroup.co.uk | thanks for reading

thank you for reading see you in the summer for the next edition of advocate magazine! issuu.com/advogroup Thanks for catching up with us here at ADVO Group for this Spring edition of Advocate magazine. Advocate will be back once again in the Summer to provide you with the very best human resource, occupational health, employee benefit and private medical insurance news, interviews, features and more!

ADVO Group’s account on Issuu.com will continue to be the primary home for Advocate magazine.

In case you missed our key contacts at the start of the magazine you can get in touch with any of them on the contact details below.

You can also get in touch by calling us on 0845 2578833, faxing us on 01622 769211. We also have three offices across the country.

The best way to stay in touch is by subscribing to the news section on the ADVO Group website. You can do this by entering your email address at news.advogroup.co.uk/subscribe.

The subscription process is incredibly simply and best of all; it’s absolutely free!

Larry Bulmer Chief Executive lbulmer@advogroup.co.uk

Head office: ADVO House St Leonards Road Allington Kent ME16 0LS

If you’ve got a story that you think belongs in Advocate magazine, whether it’s news focusing on private medical insurance, human resources, occupational health or if you’d like to be interviewed then don’t hesitate to get in touch. Send your inquiries to cfiander@advogroup.co.uk Just to remind you about who we are and what we can offer, ADVO Group is a multi award winning employee health benefit advisory looking after the requirements of many customers, from small businesses right up to multi national corporations.

Whatever your private medical insurance or employee benefit needs, we are here to help. We offer entirely indepent, free and expert advice so don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a ring on 0845 2578833. You can also email us at info@advogroup.co.uk.

Chris Mc Cracken Director, Commercial cmccracken@advogroup.co.uk Colin Boxall Director, Corporate cboxall@advogroup.co.uk Kevin Drew Director, Advo SIS kcrew@advogroup.co.uk Yvette Butterworth Corporate ybutterworth@advogroup.co.uk Sharon Harwood-Davis Consultant sharwood-davis@advogroup.co.uk Emma Shaw Personal Healthcare eshaw@advogroup.co.uk Gill Mateo Operations Manager gmateo@advogroup.co.uk

advocate spring 2013 | advogroup.co.uk | 56

London Office: Essex Hall 1-6 Essex Street London WC2R 3HU Oxford Office: 8 Old Station Yard Abingdon Oxfordshire OX14 3LD You can also get in touch through any of our social media channels. You can find us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Google+.

Thanks again for reading and see you in the winter for the next edition of Advocate magazine.

chris fiander marketing manager advo group

find every copy of advocate magzine online at issuu.com/advogroup Issue #4 winter 2012 Felix Baumgartner’s jump from the edge of space, exclusive occupational health interviews, the top emplyers according to LinkedIn, the research that asks ‘is human resources a weak link at the boardroom table?’, the fifteen key moments and milestones of 2012

Issue #3 autumn 2012 Google and Richard Branson’s poll victories, a look at the 2012 London Olympic games, the major planned changes to health and safety legislation, midfulness in the workplace, exclusive interviews with leading occupational health professionals and the occupations that are causing 8,000 cancer deathseach year

Issue #2 summer 2012 BUPA’s latest research into stress, how drinking abroad can effect your insurance, who’s on Google+, excluisve interview with HR Dept’s Tom Doherty

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