Wandsworth Healthy Workplaces

A healthy business is a productive business!

In today's fast-paced world, supporting employees with healthy eating and nutrition is more important than ever.

Proper nutrition boosts cognitive function, energy levels, and overall well-being, directly enhancing job performance and reducing absenteeism. This includes supporting breastfeeding, which is a vital aspect of nutrition for new mothers and their babies.

By promoting healthy eating habits and breastfeeding, businesses not only improve productivity but also show they genuinely care about their team's health and happiness.

Five steps your organisation can take to make an impact on your employees' health and productivity.

1. Promote Healthy Eating

Creating a healthy workplace culture starts with raising awareness. Provide resources and support to help employees make nutritious choices, including educational materials, workshops, and access to digital tools that offer guidance on healthy eating habits. By promoting the importance of nutrition and nutrition education, businesses can empower their workforce to make healthier food choices both at work and at home.

2. Provide Healthy Options

Ensure healthy food and snack options are available in all workplace settings. This includes on-site catering, vending machines, and company events. When providing food for events, you can opt for a business that have the Healthier Catering Commitment. (https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/health-andsocial-care/public-health/your-health/healthylifestyle/healthy-eating/healthier-cateringcommitment-business-list/).

3. Support Breastfeeding

Creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment is essential for supporting nursing mothers. Provide appropriate spaces for breastfeeding and expressing milk, ensuring these areas are comfortable and private.

Additionally, businesses can join the breastfeeding-friendly business scheme (https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/getinvolved/bfn-breastfeeding-friendly-scheme/) to further support nursing mothers.

By normalising breastfeeding in the workplace, companies can help reduce the social stigma of breastfeeding and promote a supportive environment for all employees.

4. Promote Regular Breaks

A UK study concluded that healthier choices do not necessarily cost more than less healthy options. For employees working remotely or in a hybrid model, offer staff benefits such as discounts for meal delivery services, healthy snack subscriptions, or vouchers for local healthy food options. By making it easy for all employees to choose healthier options, businesses can support their staff’s well-being regardless of their work location.

Becoming a leader in workplace wellness involves implementing comprehensive healthy eating and breastfeeding plans in consultation with the workforce. Participate in local initiatives and set an example for others to follow. Does your business/organisation have a healthy eating and nutrition plan for its employees?

Encourage employees to take regular breaks away from their work areas to maintain productivity and well-being. Promote the use of kitchen facilities for meal preparation and breaks, fostering a balanced work-life environment. Regular breaks can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall job satisfaction.

5. Commit to Continuous Improvement

To find out more about healthy workplaces Wandsworth and for further resources check the council webpage: www.wandsworth.gov.uk/healthy-workplaces

For more information on healthy eating resource available in Wandsworth, visit: www.wandsworth.gov.uk/healthy-eating

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The Healthy Workplace Award in Wandsworth

Nutrition is a key pillar of the Healthy Workplace Award in Wandsworth. By implementing these nutrition and breastfeeding support policies, businesses will be working towards becoming a healthy workplace and achieving the award. The award acts as a template for best practices in workplace health, covering areas such as healthy eating, mental health, and overall well-being. Participating in this programme not only benefits employees but also positions businesses as leaders in promoting a healthy and supportive work environment.

By actively engaging in wellness programmes and promoting a healthy work environment, companies can attract and retain top talent, boost employee morale, and enhance their overall reputation. Come and find out more at our next workshop: Boost Your Business: Nutrition and Well-being Workshop Tickets, Wed, Feb 5, 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/boost-your-business-nutrition-and-well-being-workshop-tickets-1113618164909?aff=oddtdtcreator

Scan the QR to register for the workshop