News

SIMCOE, SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 – The Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit is encouraging local workplaces to take part in National Healthy Workplace Month this October.

Local employers and employees are invited to submit a short description, up to 200 words in length, of an initiative at their workplace that demonstrates how the workplace has been successful in promoting health over the past year.

“The Health Unit wants to recognize and celebrate the success of workplaces that are going above and beyond to make their workplace a healthy and happy environment,” said Lesley Kennedy, Health Promoter with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit.

Each workplace that enters a submission will have their efforts recognized in an upcoming newspaper ad. An accompanying photo will showcase employees from one workplace from each county who displayed the most impressive or original healthy workplace initiative. Entries will be accepted until October 31st, and can be faxed to 519-426-9974 or emailed to[email protected].

The theme for 2011’s Healthy Workplace Month is Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, Healthy Work. Workplaces are being encouraged to take steps to improve the mental and physical health of their employees and to finding ways to make the work environment a place where healthy practices are encouraged and supported.

“There are lots of local workplaces who are already making positive changes, and others who have shown an interest in addressing workplace health,” mentioned Kennedy. “Some programs were started by managers, supervisors, or wellness coordinators, while others were spearheaded by front-line employees. That’s great to see.”

Most people spend more of their waking hours at work than anywhere else, making healthy workplaces a vital component of a person’s overall well-being. A person’s workplace directly influences their physical, mental, economic and social well-being, which in turn impacts the health of their families, communities and society in general.

“Employees are not the only ones to benefit from healthy programs and policies,” noted Kennedy. “Workplace health makes good business sense to employers as well because healthy employees are more productive, with reduced absenteeism, and lower benefits costs and staff turnover.”

While larger companies are considerably more likely than small businesses to have a workplace health and wellness program, forward-thinking workplaces of all sizes are beginning to embrace the importance and value of keeping their employees healthy.

For more information on Healthy Workplace Month visit www.healthyworkplacemonth.ca , or contact Lesley at 519-426-6170 ext 3236 or[email protected].

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Media contact:
Lesley Kennedy
Workplace Health Promoter, Population Health Team
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
Ext. 3236 at either 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623
[email protected]