Time to Talk Day
Achieving Work-Life Balance
Eating Disorders Week
Work Quiz for a Cause
Supporting Musculoskeletal Health at Work
Embrace the Month of Love
Caring for Your Mind and Body
Welcome to the second issue of our monthly Employee Wellbeing Magazine - your space for fresh ideas, uplifting insights, and practical support for a healthier, happier you. February is the perfect time to focus on both self-love and compassion for others. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, let’s make this month about celebrating all forms of love, starting with the relationship you have with yourself.
This month, we’re highlighting how open conversations can boost mental wellbeing, encouraging you to join daily mini-challenges for a healthier mind and body, and sharing simple ways to ease stress and balance work with personal life and more.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Martin Luther King Jr.
Time to Talk Day is an annual event dedicated to encouraging open conversations about mental health. Held on the first Thursday of February, this day aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote a culture where everyone feels comfortable discussing their mental wellbeing.
In the UK, mental health problems affect one in four people each year, making it crucial to foster an environment where talking about mental health is as normal as discussing physical health.
Let’s Talk: The Power of Open Conversations
Talking about mental health can be incredibly powerful It helps to normalise the conversation, making it easier for people to seek help when they need it When we talk about our mental health, we can share our experiences, offer support, and reduce feelings of isolation For many, simply knowing that they are not alone can be a significant step towards recovery
How to Get Involved?
There are many ways to participate in Time to Talk Day, whether you are an individual, a workplace, or a community group Here are some ideas to get you started:
Start a Conversation: The simplest way to get involved is to start a conversation about mental health This could be with a friend, family member, or colleague You don’t need to be an expert; just being there to listen can make a big difference
Host an Event: Organise a coffee morning, a lunch break chat, or a virtual meeting where people can come together to talk about mental health
Providing a safe and supportive space for these conversations is key
Share Your Story: If you feel comfortable, sharing your own experiences with mental health can be incredibly impactful It can help others feel less alone and encourage them to open up about their own struggles
Use Social Media: Spread the word about Time to Talk Day on social media. Use hashtags like #TimeToTalk and #MentalHealthMatters to join the conversation and raise awareness.
Day
In past years, Time to Talk Day has had a significant impact on raising awareness about mental health It has encouraged thousands of conversations, helping to break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking help By participating in Time to Talk Day, we can all contribute to creating a society where mental health is openly discussed and prioritised
Supporting Mental Health at Work
Workplaces play a crucial role in supporting mental health On Time to Talk Day, employers can take the opportunity to promote mental wellbeing among their staff Here are some ways to do this:
Encourage Open Dialogue: Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health This can be achieved through regular checkins, mental health training for managers, and promoting the use of resources like Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Provide Resources: Ensure that employees have access to mental health resources, such as counselling services, mental health first aiders, and information on managing stress and anxiety
Lead by Example: Leaders and managers should lead by example, openly discussing their own mental health and encouraging others to do the same This helps to normalise the conversation and reduce stigma
Time to Talk Day is a vital initiative that reminds us of the importance of talking about mental health. Whether through a simple conversation, hosting an event, or sharing your story, every action counts. Let’s use this day to break the silence, support one another, and create a world where everyone feels comfortable talking about their mental health.
Giving Back Giving Back: Host a Workplace Quiz : Host a Workplace Quiz and
Support a Local Charity! and Support a Local Charity!
Looking for a fun and meaningful way to bring your team together?
Organising a workplace quiz is a fantastic way to boost morale, encourage teamwork, and make a real difference in your community
Not only does it provide an opportunity to bond with colleagues, but it’s also a great way to raise funds for a local charity close to your workplace’s heart
So, gather your team, spark some friendly rivalry, and enjoy an event that leaves everyone feeling inspired and connected
Charge an Entry Fee
Ask participants for a small fee to take part Every little helps!
Provide Snacks and Drinks
Keep energy levels up with light refreshments – nibbles always make quizzes more enjoyable
Create Teams
Encourage colleagues to team up and get to know one another
Choose a Charity
Select a local charity that aligns with your workplace’s values
Donate the Proceeds
All funds raised can be donated to support a worthy cause in your community
It’s a simple way to have fun, strengthen connections, and give back to those in need! Here’s How to Get Started
Eating Disorders Awareness Week 24 February - 2
March
Eating Disorders Awareness Week, observed annually from 24th February, is a crucial time to raise awareness about eating disorders, challenge misconceptions, and promote recovery. This week is dedicated to educating the public, supporting those affected, and advocating for better access to treatment and resources.
According to Beat Eating Disorders, at least 1 in 50 people in the UK are living with an eating disorder, it’s likely that someone you work with is affected.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that involve unhealthy eating habits and severe concerns about body weight or shape They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background The most common types of eating disorders include:
1 Anorexia Nervosa: Characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to restricted food intake and excessive weight loss
2 Bulimia Nervosa: Involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviours such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or the use of laxatives
3 Binge Eating Disorder: Marked by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, without subsequent purging behaviours
4 Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED): Encompasses eating disorders that do not fit the criteria for the above categories but still significantly impact an individual’s health and wellbeing.
The Impact of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders can have severe physical, emotional, and social consequences Physically, they can lead to malnutrition, heart problems, digestive issues, and other serious health complications Emotionally, individuals may experience anxiety, depression, and low selfesteem. Socially, eating disorders can lead to isolation, strained relationships, and difficulties in work or school environments.
Raising Awareness and Challenging Stigma
One of the primary goals of Eating Disorders Awareness Week is to challenge the stigma and misconceptions surrounding these conditions Many people mistakenly believe that eating disorders are a choice or a result of vanity In reality, they are complex mental health conditions influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors
By sharing accurate information and personal stories, we can help dispel myths and encourage a more compassionate approach to those affected by eating disorders
Supporting Recovery
Recovery from an eating disorder is possible, but it often requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach Here are some ways to support individuals on their recovery journey:
1 Encourage Professional Help: Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a combination of medical, nutritional, and psychological support Encourage individuals to seek help from healthcare professionals who specialise in eating disorders
2 Offer Emotional Support: Be a supportive and non-judgemental listener Let individuals know that you are there for them and that they are not alone in their struggles
3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about eating disorders and share this knowledge with others.
Achieving Work-Life Balance: Top Tips
In today’s fast-paced world, achieving a healthy work-life balance is more important than ever Balancing professional responsibilities with personal life can significantly impact our mental and physical well-being This is highlighted by data from Mental Health UK, which demonstrated that up to 1 in 5 people in the UK has experienced symptoms of burnout and needed time off work to recover
Understanding Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance refers to the equilibrium between work commitments and personal activities It involves managing your time and energy to maintain a balance between the managing personal and professional commitments and needs A healthy work-life balance can lead to increased productivity, reduced stress, and greater overall satisfaction in work
The Importance of Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a good work-life balance is crucial for several reasons Overworking can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression, so taking time to relax, valuing our needs and engaging in hobbies can improve mental health and reduce stress levels Physical and creative activities can be particularly helpful in alleviating stress and preventing burnout
Burnout can also result in physical health issues such as fatigue, poor sleep and headaches This physical impact shows how making regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet a priority for maintaining our wellbeing This can alleviate the physical symptoms and help us feel more motivated to engage with hobbies and social lives
Spending quality time with family and friends strengthens relationships and nurtures our social health, while neglecting personal relationships can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness A wellbalanced life can enhance productivity and creativity, as being well-rested and happy makes you more likely to perform better at work
Strategies for Achieving Work-Life Balance
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid checking work emails or taking work calls during your personal time. Communicate these boundaries to your colleagues and family members
Prioritise Tasks: Identify your most important tasks and focus on completing them first Use tools like to-do lists or digital planners to organise your tasks and manage your time effectively
Take Breaks: Regular breaks during work hours can help you recharge and maintain focus Step away from your desk, take a walk, or practise deep breathing exercises to relax
Learn to Say No: It’s important to recognise your limits and not overcommit Politely decline additional tasks or responsibilities that may overwhelm you
Schedule Personal Time: Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax Whether it’s reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones, scheduling personal time is essential for maintaining balance
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues, friends, or family members Sharing your concerns and seeking advice can help you manage stress and find solutions to work-life balance challenges
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing. By setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, taking breaks, and seeking support, you can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Remember, it’s not about perfect balance every day, but about making conscious choices that promote well-being over time Strive for balance, and you’ll find yourself more productive, happier, and healthier
Supporting Musculoskeletal Health at Work
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, such as back pain, joint stiffness, and repetitive strain injuries, can significantly impact daily life and work. These issues account for a large portion of work-related ill health, but with small changes, you can protect and improve your MSK health.
Everyday Tips for MSK Health
Set up your workspace: Ensure your desk, chair, and screen are adjusted for comfort Keep your screen at eye level, elbows at a 90-degree angle, and feet flat on the floor Consider a footrest if needed
Take breaks: Avoid sitting in one position for more than 60 minutes Set a timer to remind yourself to stand, stretch, or take a short walk
Stay active: Aim for 150 minutes of exercise weekly, including walking, cycling, or swimming, alongside strength-building activities like yoga or Pilates
Mind your posture: Avoid bending or twisting while lifting Always use proper techniques for heavy objects
Stretch regularly: Simple stretches for your back, neck, and shoulders can reduce tension and improve flexibility
Your Wellbeing Matters
Taking care of your MSK health goes beyond managing pain; it’s an investment in your overall wellbeing. If you experience persistent discomfort, don’t ignore it - early intervention from a physiotherapist can prevent minor issues from becoming long-term problems.
Support from Employers
Many workplaces now offer services like onsite physiotherapy clinics, ergonomic assessments, and health and wellbeing checks These resources provide tailored advice and solutions to help employees stay healthy and productive For example, onsite physiotherapy sessions can address specific concerns, while ergonomic assessments ensure that your workspace is optimised for your needs
At TAC Healthcare, our expert-led team provides flexible physiotherapy, robust MSK screening tools, and ongoing support to help you stay healthy and engaged Some of our physiotherapy services include support with sports injuries, pre and postoperative rehabilitation, muscle and soft tissue injuries, back and neck pain, chronic pain, and osteoarthritis
Employers also recognise the value of MSK health in reducing absences and improving overall morale By taking advantage of these services, you can access personalised support to stay comfortable and efficient at work
By implementing these small but impactful changes and seeking support when needed, you can take control of your musculoskeletal health, boost your energy levels, and enhance your quality of life. Start prioritising your wellbeing today!
Contact your account manager for more information
Or, if you’re new to TAC Healthcare, contact us on 0333 014 3488 or email us at businessdevelopment@tachealthcare com
Wellbeing Calendar February February
Transform Your Snacking Habits in 30 Days!
Transform your snacking habits with healthier, nutrient-dense choices over the next 30 days!
Healthy snacking can provide essential nutrients, boost energy levels, and support overall health
How to do it?
Identify Unhealthy Snacks: List and replace them with healthier options
Choose Nutrient-Rich Options: Pick snacks high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Plan Ahead: Prep snacks weekly to stay on track
Get Creative: Try new recipes and find your favorites!
Week 1: Awareness & Preparation
Day 1: Start by recording your current snacks Write down everything you snack on for the next 7 days
Day 2: Identify which of your snacks are ultra processed or high in sugar
Day 3: Set a goal to reduce unhealthy snacking and replace it with nutritious alternatives
Day 4: Stock up on healthy snacks like fruits
Week 2: Explore Healthy Snack Options
Day 8: Try swapping crisps or crackers for crunchy vegetables and houmous
Day 9: Include a fruit based snack, like apple slices with almond butter
Day 10: Introduce protein rich snacks like boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, or a handful of almonds
Day 11: Prepare your own trail mix using nuts, seeds, and a small portion of dried fruit
Day 12: Reduce your sugar intake by choosing snacks with natural sweeteners (e g , dates, fresh fruit)
Day 13-14: Experiment with new healthy snack recipes like energy balls or homemade granola bars
Week 3: Mindful Snacking
Day 15: Practice mindful eating, pay attention to hunger cues and avoid snacking when you're bored
Day 16: Swap out sugary granola bars for homemade or low-sugar versions
Day 17: Keep your snacks balanced combine protein, fibre, and healthy fats to stay full longer (e g , apple slices with peanut butter)
Day 18: Avoid late-night snacking by having a nutritious evening meal
Day 19: Reduce processed snack intake by focusing on whole, unprocessed foods
Day 20-21: Limit snacking in front of the TV or while working to avoid mindless eating
Week 4: Fine-Tuning & Building Lasting Habits
Day 22: Try a plant-based snack for a day, like roasted chickpeas or avocado toast
Day 23: Prepare healthy snacks in bulk (e g , vegetable sticks, fruit salad, homemade popcorn) for convenience.
Day 24: Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal teas to complement your healthy snacks.
Day 25: Incorporate fibre rich snacks like berries, whole-grain crackers, or carrots/celery with houmous.
Day 26: Plan for healthier snacks when on the go Pack fruits, nuts, or yogurt for travel or work
Day 27-28: Continue to experiment with snack combinations, focusing on variety and balance
Useful Resources
NHS - Healthie Food Swaps
Healthy Trail Mix
Healthy Snack Ideas
Mindful Snacking
Final Days: Reflect & Sustain
Day 29: Reflect on how your snacking habits have changed What improvements do you notice in your energy or hunger levels?
Day 30: Set long-term goals to continue snacking healthily Plan to make nutritious snacks a permanent part of your daily routine
Bonus Challenge
Swap one of your typical snacks each day for a nutrient dense option like a handful of mixed nuts, a smoothie, or vegetable sticks with guacamole
Recipe
Valentine’s Day Chocolate Sandwich Cookies
Here’s a delightful recipe for Valentine’s Day Chocolate Sandwich Cookies The perfect sweet treat to celebrate love! These chocolate cookies are soft, fudgy, and sandwiched with a smooth, creamy filling
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk
Heart-shaped cookie cutters (optional for the Valentine’s theme)
For the Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups icing sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons double cream or milk Red or pink food colouring (optional for a festive touch)
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Method
For the Cookies
1 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with baking paper
2. Prepare the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes)
4 Add the egg and vanilla Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined
5 Incorporate the dry ingredients Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until combined Add the milk and mix until the dough comes together and is smooth
6 Roll out the dough mixture On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness Use heart-shaped cookie cutters (or any shape you like) to cut out cookies
7 Bake the cookies Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set Be careful not to overbake to keep them soft Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely
Filling
1 Make the buttercream filling In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy - Gradually add the icing sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy Mix in the vanilla extract and cream (or milk) until the filling is smooth and spreadable You can add a little more cream or milk if needed If you want a festive touch, add a few drops of red or pink food colouring to the filling and mix until the desired shade is achieved
Assemble the Cookies
1 Sandwich the cookies Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread a generous amount of buttercream filling on the flat side of one cookie Top with another cookie, pressing gently to form a sandwich
2 Decorate (optional) Roll the edges of the filled cookies in sprinkles for an extra pop of colour and festivity
3 Chill and serve If the filling is too soft, you can refrigerate the cookies for 15-20 minutes to set before serving
Customise the filling You can add Flavors like raspberry or mint extract to the filling for a fun twist Shape variation If you don’t have heart-shaped cutters, round cookies work just as well and are easy to make
These Valentine’s Day Chocolate Sandwich Cookies are decadent, cute, and perfect for sharing!
Industrial Hygiene Industrial Hygiene Services for a Services for a
Safer Workplace Safer Workplace
At TAC Healthcare, our aim is to help you understand workplace health risks and communicate advice on what needs to be done to prevent serious illnesses like cancer, asthma, skin diseases and deafness
Comprehensive Industrial Hygiene Services
TAC Healthcare’s Occupational Hygienists will concentrate on the recognition, assessment, evaluation and control of chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic hazards on your sites Just some of our services:
Face Fit Testing
Conducting Face Fit Testing for Respiratory Protective Equipment (Qualitative and Quantitative)
Our team at TAC Healthcare is led by a chartered member of the faculty of occupational hygiene (CMFOH).
We support our clients to help identify, evaluate and control exposure to workplace hazards that may include chemicals, dust, fumes, noise, radiation, vibration and extreme temperatures
Noise Exposure
Developing noise exposure management systems including noise exposure reduction plans
COSHH Assessments
Creating hazardous substance inventories and task based COSHH Assessments
Monitoring
Conduct Industrial hygiene monitoring where it can deliver value.
Legionella Risk Assessment
Conducting Legionella Risk Assessments and developing Written Control Schemes for hot and cold potable water management systems
Contact your account manager for more information.
Or, if you’re new to TAC Healthcare, contact us on 0333 014 3488 or at businessdevelopment@tachealthcare.com
Download Our 2025 Wellbeing Calendar
By downloading the calendar you'll also receive monthly updates on our new magazine issues, packed with fresh insights and actionable tips to help your workforce thrive.
✅ Support Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance
✅ Enhance Employee Engagement
✅ Promote Inclusivity & Diversity
TAC’s Full-Spectrum Physio
Care for Organisations
Our expert-led team provides flexible physiotherapy, robust MSK screening tools, and ongoing support to help employees stay healthy and engaged.
Meet Jenni - Our Lead Physio
Jenni is a Chartered Physiotherapist with over 18 years of Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine experience. After specialising in musculoskeletal injuries, she completed a Master’s in Sports & Exercise Medicine at the University of Glasgow in 2015 and went on to work with professional sports clubs.
As a member of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Occupational Health and Ergonomics, Jenni now works closely with occupational health physicians and specialist nurses to support employees with MSK injuries in the workplace. Her expertise in preventing and treating joint, muscle, and tendon disorders makes physiotherapy an integral component of effective sickness and absence management strategies.
Jenni
Butler, Lead Physiotherapist
Our Services Include
Management Referrals
Physiotherapy Clinic
DSE Assessments
MSK Screening Tools
Functional Capacity Assessments
Manual Handling Training
Employee Wellbeing
Additional Services
Physiotherapy Services
Comprehensive evaluation and treatment for musculoskeletal (MSK) issues, including tailored return-to-work guidance, workplace adjustments, and role modification advice Management Referral
Functional Capacity Assessments
In-depth analysis of physical capabilities required for specific job roles Supports back-to-work planning and contributes to occupational health management reviews.
DSE Assessments
Advanced and clinical DSE assessments tailored for complex user needs or integrated with clinical MSK evaluations. Includes ergonomic reviews and provides managers with actionable guidance for addressing ongoing or one-off employee requirements
MSK Screening Tools
Paper-based and in-person evaluations to identify and mitigate potential MSK risks within the workforce. Proven to reduce sickness absence by proactively addressing health concerns.
Flexible onsite physiotherapy sessions, available as one-off appointments or scheduled services to support employee health directly at the workplace. Physiotherapy Clinic
Comprehensive training programs for staff, with options for "train-the-trainer" courses to build internal expertise within your organisation. Manual Handling Training
Customisable onsite employee health checks including – body composition, diabetes risk, cholesterol levels, blood pressure and activity guidelines for healthy lifestyles. Employee Wellbeing
Contact your account manager fo more information.
Or, if you’re new to TAC Healthcare, contact us on 0333 014 3488 or email us a businessdevelopment@tachealthcare com
Additional Services
Bespoke guidance and support packages from dietitians and physiotherapists, tailored to individual employee needs
