Walk this way to better mental health
Charity urges firms to get workforce moving
ANDREA LAMBROU
A charity is urging businesses in East Kilbride to kick start the new decade by getting their workforce moving.
As debates around climate change and mental health gain momentum, national walking charity Paths for All believes employers should act now to help staff be healthier and happier by signing up for its Walk at Work Award.
Aimed at reversing the trend of inactive workplaces, the accreditation supports businesses in tackling issues of staff wellbeing and corporate carbon footprint, while enhancing productivity.
Recent findings from UK workplaces reveal that half of all employees experience poor mental health at work, including stress, anxiety and depression.
Regular walking can reduce the effects of poor mental health, particularly walking in greenspace.
Physical activity can also combat against the risk of type 2 diabetes, some cancers and stroke.
Standing desks, lunchtime walks, organised litter picks, encouraging staff to take breaks away from their desks and providing information on routes around the workplace are just some of the activities and adaptations implemented by companies to meet the accreditation criteria.
More than 20 workplaces have earned the Walk at Work Award, with 42 more now working towards it.
Ian Findlay CBE, chief officer at
Paths for All, said: “The workplace is where the majority of us spend a great deal of our time, so it’s incredibly important that staff wellbeing is at the forefront of any employer’s mind.
“The benefits of walking for mental health can’t be denied.
“On top of that, it is becoming increasingly difficult for companies to ignore the rising concerns and need for action around climate change. They have a growing responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint and introduce policies which put the environment at the centre of their business activities.”