SARH is a healthy place to work

STAFFORD and Rural Homes (SARH) has received an award for its commitment to looking after the health and wellbeing of staff.

SARH has been awarded a bronze Workplace Health Award by Staffordshire County Council for its efforts to assist employees to lead a healthier lifestyle.

“We are committed to the health and wellbeing of all our staff and the wider community because we believe motivating employees to develop healthier habits at work and at home not only helps to increase productivity it also benefits the local economy,” said Lyndsey Shepherd, Training and Development Officer for SARH.

SARH offers staff a healthcare plan and also works closely with an occupational health company to offer staff advice.

Discount gym membership, access to a finance information service, and childcare vouchers are also available for SARH staff.

“Having achieved a bronze award we are now working closely with Staffordshire County Council to achieve the silver and gold levels,” said Lyndsey.

“One of the ways we will be doing this is to focus on encouraging people to stop smoking and we will be offering assistance and support to all to help them to quit.”

SARH employs 190 people and the latest results in an independent survey show that 90 per cent of staff are proud to work for the organisation. These initiatives are linked to taking SARH from a good place to work to a great place to work.  By listening to staff SARH can decide what actions to take to constantly improve.

Karen Armitage, Chief Executive of SARH, said: “Providing support to stop smoking and promoting regular exercise were points raised in our annual staff survey.  Listening to our staff and making positive actions based on their feedback is an important part of how we operate.  SARH is a values based organisation committed to the health and wellbeing of all our people, whether they are staff, customers or board members.

“The Workplace Health award is an external accreditation of our commitment and we are pleased to be able to show our dedication is real and making a difference.”