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Truro-based accountant, Whyfield, says it puts a real emphasis on the health and wellbeing of its team.

“One of our most impactful changes of 2022 was our move to the four-day work week,” explains MD Laura Whyte. “This was a massive shift for the company, but enabled us to open for longer for our clients whilst giving our employees a whole extra day off per week. What better way to increase your work-life balance?”

The business also has a yearly wellbeing and social calendar in which its team are able to go out on activity days, take part in yoga and self-defence classes, and more.

“We have two Wellbeing Champions within the office, who are there for staff to talk to should they wish,” adds Lura.

“Each team member is able to have a wellbeing ‘check-in’ as frequently as they would like, to ensure they are speaking about things that may be on their mind, and they are able to be sign-posted to help should they need it.”

Laura thinks this is an initiative that all businesses should consider adopting. “Just getting across the message that talking is valuable, creating a culture where people can be open and honest about how their feeling. Communication is key.

“Also make sure to emphasise the importance of taking breaks, stretching your legs, getting some fresh air, etc. Our team often go out of group walks together, encouraging others to join if they would like to. Getting that bit of movement in, in the fresh air, definitely sets the team up for a productive afternoon.”

The First Light charity has a Wellbeing Group, made up of 12 staff members who have volunteered to meet monthly to discuss any wellbeing issues within the organisation.

“The second half of the meeting,” says corporate and community fundraiser Anna Micthell, “is an hour’s workshop to focus on particular areas of wellbeing that have been highlighted – these vary from month to month.” She says for a positive culture to exist within the workplace, its needs to start from the top down.

“If a CEO/manager shows vulnerability, then it encourages that ‘culture’ throughout the organisation. We regularly ask how staff are. However, we need to recognise that staff will choose to manage their mental health in their own way and that may be by doing things outside of work. We regularly include wellbeing top tips in our staff updates.”

Rise Of The Pig Dippers

Wild swimming has been growing in popularity in recent times, with advocates bestowing the benefits it gives to mind, body and business.

THE PIG at Harlyn Bay, in collaboration with Cornwall Chamber and Brooks Financial Planning, recently launched a new networking event with a difference – the Pig Dippers – which meets once a month for a bracing Atlantic swim, followed by breakfast at THE PIG.

“The camaraderie gives you such a high and it’s a great reminder of the healing powers of nature and how lucky we are to have the ocean on our doorstep,” enthuses networker Clare Stanley.

“On top of the undeniable mind and body benefits, ‘Pig Dipping’ has led to new friends, valuable connections and even to my dream job!”