| |
|
Wellbeing through Work Team wins ‘Into the Limelight’ Advancing Health Care Award
The Advancing Healthcare Awards 2013, supported by all four UK health departments, recognise and reward projects and professionals that lead innovative healthcare practice and can make a real difference to patients’ lives. The Wellbeing through Work delivery team was awarded this in April 2013 for its ability to deliver the message that remaining in work or returning to work with a health condition, is more beneficial for health and productivity than spiralling into long-term sickness. The judges commented that this is an, ‘aspirational project, moving away from the medical model.’
.
Dr. Ruth Hussey, Chief Medical Officer Welsh Government, congratulated the team stating, ‘this scheme to help people to return or remain in work is making a significant contribution to the longer term health and wellbeing of the population. Well done on your award’.
Professor Sir Mansel Aylward CB, Chair of Public Health Wales Board added: "I woild like to add my congratulations to the team for gaining this prestigious award which reflects the sterling work undertaken in the Wellbeing through Work Project by a highly committed team"
21/05/2013
|
A new plan for GP and Health Professionals Engagement
GP/Health professional engagement is increasingly seen by the WtW project as a key route to increasing referrals from the private sector into its delivery service. It also meets a key aim of the project which is support the fitness for work consultation by providing rapid access to work focused health interventions. The project is now visting a range of GPs Practices to describe what the service can do for them and their patients. Contact Joy.Powell@wales.nhs.uk or ring us on 0845 601 7556 for more information or to arrange a visit
.
17/05/2013
|
Workforce Health Checks
The WtW Nurse Adviser has started visiting private and third sector organisations to promote the
WtW Individual Support Service, give healthy lifestyle advice and undertake basic health checks.
Early indications are that this has been well received
17/05/2013
|
Serenity - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Tool
The first phase IT development of the online (web) version of the Serenity CBT tool was
recently completed.
The tool is being adapted for use by the WtW delivery team as part of their support
package for participants.
Roll-out will follow the current phase of user testing.
17/05/2013
|
Annual World Hello Day
November 21, 2012 is the 40th annual World Hello Day. The concept is very simple: make it a mission to say hello to 10 people today. It is a simple act that anyone can do and reminds us all that communication is more effective then conflict.
Saying Hello is also a great way to connect with others as part of your "5 Ways for Wellbeing" (Foresight Programme (http://www.bis.gov.uk/foresight ) Prof Cary Cooper: Mental Capital
Connect with the people around you, with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.
15/05/2013
|
Blue Monday
Is today (21st January 2013) the most depressing day of the year?
The third Monday in January, known as Blue Monday, is said to represent the perfect storm of cold weather, high debts, post-Christmas hangover, failed New Year resolutions and lack of motivation.
Whether or not 21 January really is the worst day of the year, it’s good to be aware of how stress can affect us. The truth is that although the winter weather and these other factors may affect our mood, we can feel ‘blue’ any day of any week.
Work pressures, family pressures, money worries and other concerns can create a ‘perfect storm’ and leave us feeling anxious and stressed.
But there are ways we can help ourselves – and others – through that storm.
What can I do?
It is really important to make sure you talk to someone. Friends and family might be able to offer a cup of tea and a chat. Just seeing a friendly face can really make a difference.
If you need some expert advice on health, wellbeing or employment issues, Wellbeing through Work is here to help. Our service is available to working people based in Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea.
Just call the Wellbeing through Work free, confidential support line on 0845 601 7556 for help to stay well in work. The service is made possible by the EU’s convergence European Social Fund, through the Welsh Government and is provided at no cost to you or your employer.
If you need further support, or you are not employed, organisations such as the Samaritans, the Money Advice Service, Cruse, Mind Cymru and Relate all have helplines. Call us for help – everyone finds the going tough sometimes.
Staying active and taking care of what you eat and drink can also help you feel well; a recent article by the Mental Health Foundation suggested that what we eat and drink can affect our mood as well as our physical fitness.
How can I help others?
If someone you know is going through a tough time, try taking them for a day out, or if you’re busy, send them a friendly text or give them a call. Just making contact can make a big difference.
You can also ask if your friend or family member needs any support. Just being there for them will help them to stay well. If they are struggling to stay in work, you could recommend they give us a call.
How can WtW help me?
WtW is a project in partnership between the NHS and Remploy. We can help you to manage health and wellbeing issues which might be keeping you away from work, or making you think about taking time off. This could be anything from back pain to emotional issues. You might be struggling to get back into your role following time off sick. Our friendly, expert advisors use a variety of tools and pain management techniques to ensure you have the relevant knowledge you need to manage your wellbeing.
Follow us on Twitter: @wtw_wales
21/01/2013
|
National Stress Awareness Day - 7th November 2012
Stress Management has never been more relevant than it is today. According to recent research by Insurance Company AXA, stress levels have doubled in 4 years.
Do you recognise any of these signs?
- easily irritated and lose your temper
- feel generally tired and exhausted
- have difficulty concentrating for any length of time
- feel tense and unable to relax
- have difficulty sleeping
- suffer from frequent headaches
- suffer from indigestion or nausea
- becoming more moody than usual
- stop doing some of the things you really enjoy
If you are experiencing some or all of the above effects you may need help to manage them.
Why don't you give Wellbeing through Work a call on 0845 601 7556.
Our friendly team of experienced professionals can help you understand how stress affects you and support you to self-manage your stress levels.
07/11/2012
|
World Mental Health Day
10 October 2012
World Mental Health Day raises public awareness about mental health issues. The day promotes open discussions of mental disorders and investments in prevention, promotion and treatment services. This year the theme for the day is "Depression: A Global Crisis".
As a way to prevent this Global Crisis the Wellbeing through Work Service promotes "5 Ways to Wellbeing". A simple approach which gives you 5 things to do everyday in order to improve your emotional wellbeing:
Connect ... With the people around you, with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.
Be active ... Go for a walk or run, step outside, cycle, play a game, gardening or dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suites your level of mobility and fitness.
Give ...Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone, smile, volunteer your time, join a community group. Look out, as well as in. Seeing yourself and your happiness linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and creates connections with the people around you.
Keep learning ... Try something new, rediscover an old interest, sign up for that course. Take a different responsibility at work. Fix a bike. Learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving. Learning new things will make you more confident as well as being fun.
Take notice ... Be curious, catch sight of the beautiful, remark on the unusual, notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are walking to work, eating lunch or talking to friends. Be aware of the work around you and what you are feeling. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you.
Foresight Programme (http://www.bis.gov.uk/foresight ) Prof Cary Cooper: Mental Capital
08/10/2012
|
Mindfulness Session
The Wellbeing through Work Service Delivery Team took part in a Mindfulness Session delivered by Moira Morgan, Mindfulness Coach from the National Leadership and Innovation for Healthcare Agency (NLIAH). Moira explained the theory behind mindfulness and the evidence base for using meditation as a way to improve your health and wellbeing. The team participated in 3 short meditation sessions which they found very helpful.
Moria recommended not just for those of us who are suffering with depression the following publication 'The Mindful Way Through Depression' by Williams, Mark G with John Teasdale, Zindel Segal and Jon Kabat-zinn
If you would like further information about Mindfulness and how it can help you, please visit :-
http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/help-information/mental-health-a-z/M/mindfulness
03/10/2012
|
WtW team takes on the Swansea Cycle Challenge!
Swansea Cycle Challenge is a free competition run by Swansea Council and a number of health and wellbeing partners. The challenge is designed to remind people working and living in Swansea of the freedom and fun you experience riding a bike.
Members of the WtW team completed a ten minute bike ride during their lunch hour on Monday 23rd July.
Congratulations to all that took part.
If you would like to know more about the Swansea Cycle Challenge please follow the link below:-
www.swanseacyclechallenge.org.uk
02/10/2012
|
Come and meet us!
We will be at Sainsbury's, Bridgend (The Derwen) On Monday 23rd July from 10am to 5pm. If you want to know more about how Wellbeing through Work can help you or someone you know to stay well and in work, why not pop down to see us?
01/08/2012
|
|
|
New case studies online!
Do you want to learn a bit more about how Wellbeing through Work helps individuals with their health and wellbeing at work?
We have three new case studies available for you to read. The case studies will help you understand how we could help you - or your company's employees - with health and wellbeing issues.
Just click the link below to find out more!
Click here to go to the case studies page
01/08/2012
|
Wellbeing through Work - upcoming events
On 7th March, members of the Wellbeing through Work team attended an event co-ordinated by Welsh Government, called 'Improving Attendance
in the Public Sector' with a stand to promote Wellbeing through Work.
Whether you are an employer wondering if the project could help your staff, or an individual who wants to know more about how Wellbeing through Work could benefit you, we will also be representing Wellbeing through Work at the following events over coming weeks:
21st March - Psychological Therapies in Wales: A National Conference, SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff
21st March - Healthy Working Wales Awards Ceremony and Employer Engagement Event, Millenium Stadium, Cardiff
22nd March - Therapies Conference, SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff
22nd March - Acas Wales Annual Conference, St David’s Hotel, Cardiff
28th March - Swansea Evening Post Jobs Fair, Swansea National Waterfront Museum
12th April - Liberty Stadium Recruitment Fair, Liberty Stadium, Swansea
Our team would welcome the opportunity to chat to you about Wellbeing through Work. Leaflets and other materials will also be available for you to take away. We hope to see you there!
01/08/2012
|
New radio campaign launched
You can hear our new radio ad throughout March, by tuning in on 106.3 FM to local radio station Bridge FM.
If you have heard our advert and want to know more about the Wellbeing through Work service, please browse our website for further information.
If you live or work in Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot or Swansea, and need advice or support to stay well in the workplace, call Wellbeing through Work today on 0845 601 7556. Our friendly advisors can offer confidential support and advice covering a range of health and employment issues.
01/08/2012
|
Survey urges more help for individuals keeping jobs
A survey published by the Care Quality Commission highlights the need to support people to find or stay in work.
The survey of 17,000 people who used community mental health services identified that only 15% of respondents are in regular paid work. 43% of respondents who wanted help to find work or retain a position had not received help to do so.
Steve Duggan from the Centre for Mental Health stated: “Employment support should be part of the care plan. We know that work is good for health. Securing employment promotes recovery, aids rehabilitation and reduces the risk of social exclusion often faced by people with serious mental health problems.”
01/08/2012
|
Wellbeing through Work helps Kim - new case study
Wellbeing through Work has launched a case studies section demonstrating how the service has benefited individuals and helped them retain employment.
The first case study shows how Wellbeing through Work helped Kim to:
- Negotiate new working hours,
- Improve her health,
- Claim Disability Living Allowance, and
- Helped her reduce her monthly mortgage payments.
To read more about how Wellbeing through Work helped Kim, please visit the case studies section.
01/08/2012
|
Know Your Pulse
The heart rhythm charity, Arrhythmia Alliance (A-A), has launched a high profile campaign ‘Know Your Pulse’ to promote the importance of individuals checking their pulse.
A simple pulse check is the easiest way to detect a potential heart rhythm disorder referred to as cardiac arrhythmia. A-A is promoting routine pulse checks when patients visits their GP surgery so that more people will be diagnosed and treated for cardiac arrhythmias. The campaign is well supported by MPs, healthcare providers, patients and several celebrities including Sir Roger Moore.
Cardiac arrhythmia is an electrical problem that affects the way the heart beats and can lead to several health conditions, including stroke and sudden cardiac arrest. According to the Arrhythmia Alliance, more than 2 million people in the UK are affected by cardiac arrhythmias and by being aware of their pulse, individuals can recognise when their heart rate or rhythm is abnormal.
Arrhythmia Alliance has produced a simple four step guide on how to take your pulse, what the pulse is, what it means and what pulse rates require further investigation from a GP. The Pulse Check Guide is suitable for all individuals with an interest in their personal heart health.
01/08/2012
|
Debt and stress training can help retain staff
A survey conducted by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) shows that better pay has become more important than job satisfaction.
In last year’s survey, job satisfaction was considered the most important reason for keeping or moving jobs, whereas pay is now considered the more important. Among the reasons for this change are employees experiencing pay freezes and higher inflation with 1 in 10 workers falling behind with bills. Employees experiencing financial difficulties are more likely to be under stress and less satisfied at work.
Ben Willmott, a Senior Adviser at the CIPD, explained that this kind of stress leads to higher absence from work, more accidents at work and more problems with mental health. However, employers can help by organising training to help deal with stress and financial problems which can help produce a more content workforce.
Mr. Willmott went on to state:
"It is, therefore, in employers' interests to support employees in tough times through ensuring line managers are equipped with effective people management skills and by providing advice and support on debt management and financial planning."
If you are interested in receiving free stress training or debt management training, please contact Wellbeing through Work on 0300 456 8068 or complete the contact form.
01/08/2012
|
New Wellbeing through Work website launched
Welcome to the new Wellbeing through Work website! The Wellbeing through Work website provides access to health and work related information.
This site has been launched to support people to remain healthy in work and promote improved wellbeing for those who may already have work limiting health conditions. Work is good for health and speeds recovery and our aim is to provide advice, information and guidance to help you reap the benefits that work can bring.
The site as you see it today will continue to grow and improve in response to the requirements of you our audience and importantly we will be adding self management tools and promoting services that support self help.
How can we improve the Wellbeing through Work website?
We want the new Wellbeing through Work website to offer a complete service for health and work related information. If you want to provide constructive feedback to help us improve the website, then please submit feedback via the form on the contact us page.
01/08/2012
|
Mental Health first aid benefits the workplace
One in four people may experience a mental health problem during the next 12 months which can be helped by staying in work according to occupational physician Dr. Clive Morgan.
Whereas some employees may need time off work, returning to work can help with recovery and organisations have an important role to play with ensuring that employees’ wellbeing is safeguarded under the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Dr. Morgan claims that more progressive employers are recognising that mental wellbeing is as important as physical wellbeing and are sending staff to train as mental health first aiders. Dr. Morgan goes onto state that not only does a positive approach to mental health at work benefit the employee, it also benefits the organisation and economy.
To read more from Dr. Clive Morgan, please visit WalesOnline.
If you are interested in mental health in the workplace, please contact us on 0300 456 8068 or use our contact form.
04/08/2011
|
|