Member Article

Vela awarded for staff wellbeing scheme

A local housing provider has been awarded with a ‘Better Health at Work Award’ to recognise its efforts to promote well-being in the workplace.

Housing Hartlepool, part of the Vela Group were presented with the Silver Standard award after introducing a number of measures to help staff get fit including weight management classes, encouraging physical exercise, supporting No Smoking day and offering stress and well-being advice.

Bernadette Stainsby, Head of HR for the Vela Group, said: “It is important to look after our staff as they are our biggest asset.

“Caring about our workers’ well-being is embedded in our policies and procedures including initiatives designed to improve health and awareness in the workplace.

Housing Hartlepool has now made plans to work towards achieving the Gold Level standard, and will now focus on continuing to improve the emotional and physical health of their staff.

The Group is working closely with Clarity Wellbeing, who have helped staff to address their personal needs by offering face to face counselling and training services. The whole process has helped to foster a positive management culture within the business.

“As well as having an impact on sickness levels, the programmes we have put into practice also benefit our employees’ general welfare and quality of life.” Bernadette added.

“It is gratifying that our efforts have been independently recognised with Silver in the Better Health at Work Awards.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .