Big Interview
Trust is a true champion of wellbeing at work Laughter really is the best medicine at one of the region’s biggest employers. The health and wellbeing team at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust explain why happiness at work matters. Nothing brings people together better than a good giggle. “When you’re laughing together it lifts your spirits and you can just focus on the present and forget the pressures of work and home,” says Susan Hayes, Hospital Engagement Officer at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity.
Find out more about Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust at
worcsacute.nhs.uk
“That’s why Laughtercise is one of our most successful wellbeing sessions, it promotes the most wonderful team building, and allows colleagues to spend quality time together. It’s great to see everyone feeling positive and re-energised after a Laughtercise session.” Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, Kidderminster Hospital and Treatment Centre and Worcestershire Royal Hospital, has a very strong duty of care towards its most important resource – the 7000 staff who work across its three main sites – as well as the 250,000 patients treated every year. Their thriving health and wellbeing strategy is proof that happy, healthy staff are the best advocates for patient care. The Trust – which was recognised for its extensive health and wellbeing support with a Special Recognition Award from the Worcestershire Works Well Partnership earlier this year - provides core funding for the initiative, but fundraising for
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anything over and above NHS provision is done by its in-house Charity, which works hand in hand with the HR team and enthusiastic supporters from all departments. As part of its core offer for staff, the Trust provides an in-house dedicated Psychological Wellbeing Service to all staff who may be experiencing emotional distress that is impacting on their work. This service provides a safe and confidential space for staff to check in with their psychological wellbeing and to discuss any additional support they may need. A 24/7 counselling service is also available and its fast-track approach guarantees immediate help and support. Sue adds, “Additionally, the Charity has also been delighted to fund a host of other wellbeing initiatives such as menopause and carer support packages, including support for working carers. Following the success of wellbeing walks at the Alexandra Hospital, with the added option of mindfulness, we are planning to expand these to the other sites when the weather warms up again.” The Trust is also an accredited flexible employer and proud recipient of the ‘Employer with Heart’ charter from The Smallest Things after remodelling its policies on family leave and flexible working with help from Timewise consultants. Overall, there has been an exceptional response, says HR Business Partner Jennifer Carr-Smith. “We hwchamber.co.uk
