As you know we are very passionate about helping local businesses support the financial wellbeing of their employees. As a not-for-profit credit union, we understand the vital role financial stability plays in overall wellbeing. That’s why we were proud to attend the third annual East Sussex Wellbeing at Work Programme Conference and Awards Ceremony – an event that not only celebrates businesses prioritising their employees’ health but also inspires others to follow suit.
Recognising the Importance of Workplace Wellbeing
Since its launch in 2021, the East Sussex Wellbeing at Work Programme has provided a free framework to local employers, helping them enhance the wellbeing of their teams. With 155 organisations registered and 96 awards granted, the programme has made a significant impact in fostering healthier workplaces.
The accreditation scheme, funded and delivered by Public Health at East Sussex County Council, equips businesses with workplace health resources, training, events, and signposting services. By acknowledging businesses that actively promote employee wellbeing, it sets a standard for others to aspire to.
A Day of Inspiration and Celebration
This year’s ceremony took place at The Observer Building in Hastings, an iconic historic venue brought back into public use. The theme, Inspiring Wellbeing Through Creativity, highlighted how creativity can support mental and physical health in the workplace.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from insightful speakers, including:
- Rob Tolfee and Teresa Salami-Oru from East Sussex County Council
- Julia Roberts from Culture Shift, who demonstrated the power of creative journaling as a tool for mental wellbeing
- Stacey Bollingbroke and Sarah-Jane Collard from East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, who explained how wellbeing initiatives improve recruitment, retention, and productivity
A particularly impactful moment was hearing about the successful initiatives run by East Sussex County Council and East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust – two organisations we proudly support as Employer Partners of ours with our Workplace Savings Scheme, Chorus. It was humbling to receive recognition from Sarah-Jane Collard of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust for the positive impact we’ve had on their workforce.
The event also featured a special appearance by Dr. Roger Prentis, an NLP Master Practitioner and Master Hypnotherapist, who interviewed mental health advocate and podcaster Travis Main-Martin about men’s mental health – a crucial topic in workplace wellbeing.
Celebrating Local Businesses Making a Difference
Throughout the ceremony, Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards were presented to businesses across Sussex that have demonstrated a commitment to workplace wellbeing. We were particularly thrilled to see several of our employer partners – organisations that offer our Workplace Savings Scheme to their staff – being recognised. Notable award recipients included: East Sussex County Council, East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Let’s Do Business Group and Havens Community Hub
A special mention goes to Wealden District Council, which became the first local authority to achieve Gold status. Their inspiring presentation showcased their journey toward creating a healthier workplace culture.
Engaging with Businesses to Enhance Financial Wellbeing
Beyond celebrating these achievements, we were also on hand to showcase our financial wellbeing services. The event’s marketplace allowed attendees to connect with local organisations offering support, and we had the pleasure of speaking with local businesses interested in learning more about our free workplace savings scheme with offer. It was fantastic to see so many employers recognising the value of financial stability in overall wellbeing.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Employee Wellbeing
Events like the East Sussex Wellbeing at Work Awards are essential in shining a light on the incredible efforts businesses make to support their employees’ wellbeing. They also serve as a source of inspiration for other organisations to take meaningful steps toward fostering healthier workplaces.
We’d like to extend our thanks to Stewart Marquis and Matt Ellis from Wellbeing at Work for organising such a fantastic event. Their dedication to workplace wellbeing is truly commendable.
Let’s continue to champion employee wellbeing across East Sussex! If you’d like to learn more about how our Workplace Savings Scheme can support your employees’ financial wellbeing, visit www.savewithchorus.com or contact Jason Smith at Jason.smith@wavecb.org.uk.
