Importance of small changes

Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, tells us about how she is tackling change

“THE Well-being of Future Generations Act is very much about change, changing the way we live and work so that we make the connections between social, environmental, economic and cultural aspects of our lives and our well-being,” she said.

“Changing behaviours and habits is something that we all do in our daily lives; whether it is joining a fitness club, a decision to shop local or participating in a community group.”

Since coming into office her team has set out to collaborate with organisations and individuals covering issues like refugees, domestic abuse, chronic health conditions and innovation. But they have also had a good look at themselves to see what changes they could make in their Cardiff office.

“Our recent office move is a good example of how we have successfully lowered our carbon footprint and created an environment that saved money and maximised the staff’s well-being,” said Mrs Howe.

“We agreed to share with the Welsh Language Commissioner a second floor of her office that wasn’t being utilised. We scrapped plans for new furniture and reused secondhand. Using Skype and other teleconferencing services we’ve reduced the need to travel to meetings. Our tech also means that our staff can work where they want – recognising a healthy work life balance is good for well-being, morale and productivity.”

“These may seem like a small changes and we’re not perfect. For us this is just the start and we have lots more planned. But imagine if we – as individuals, as employees and employers, as a community – take action now on the small things, there will be a much bigger gift we leave behind – a Wales fit for the future for our children and grandchildren.”