helping people and business thrive case ......• gold status – a total of 11 businesses hold gold...
TRANSCRIPT
HELPING PEOPLE AND BUSINESS THRIVE CASE STUDIES
2019–20
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the ACT, the Ngunnawal people, and their continuing connection to land and community. We pay respect to them, and to the Elders both past and present.
HELPING PEOPLE AND BUSINESS THRIVE CASE STUDIES
2019–20
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© Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, June 2020
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the Territory Records Office, ACT Government, GPO Box 158, Canberra City ACT 2601.
Enquiries about this publication should be directed to Healthier Work, GPO Box 158, Canberra City, ACT 2601 or email: [email protected]
www.heatlhierwork.act.gov.au | www.act.gov.au
Enquiries: Access Canberra 6207 3000
Accessibility
The ACT Government is committed to making its information, services, events and venues as accessible as possible.
If you have difficulty reading a standard printed document and would like to receive this publication in an alternative format such as large print, please phone 6207 3000 or email [email protected]
If English is not your first language and you require the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS), please call 13 14 50.
If you are Deaf, or have a speech or hearing impairment and need the teletypewriter service, please phone 13 36 77 and ask for 6207 3000.
For speak and listen users, please phone 1300 555 727 and ask for 6207 3000. For more information on these services visit www.relayservice.com.au
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2
Workplaces participating in our Recognition Scheme � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6
About Healthier Work � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8
Pledge wall � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 12
Platinum workplaces � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15
Gold workplaces� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 33
Silver workplaces � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 41
Recognised workplaces � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 51
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FOREWORDJACQUELINE AGIUS ACT WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMISSIONER
Having recently commenced in the role of Work Health and Safety Commissioner, I am delighted to learn more about the Healthier Work service and the outstanding efforts of the workplaces it supports.
As part of my role, I am committed to ensuring that Healthier Work continues to support Canberra’s workplaces to thrive as health-promoting environments – for the benefit of all.As the Regulator responsible for work health and safety in the ACT we must continue to engage with ACT workplaces.
A year like no otherIt has been a challenging year. The 2019–20 summer brought intense heat, smoke, the threat of fires, as well as hailstorms. And then the threat of COVID-19 hit our country. The word ‘unprecedented’, so commonly used during this time, no longer seems to justly describe the situation. COVID-19 has unsettled and disrupted our local community: our businesses, workforce, relationships, families and friends.Healthier Work, and indeed the whole of WorkSafe ACT, has supported workplaces and workers during these very difficult times, with the acknowledgement that workplaces can and must play a role in protecting and promoting the health, safety and wellbeing of our workers.I am proud of the Healthier Work strategy implemented during COVID-19. It provided workplaces and workers with ongoing support, including a webinar series and access to a range of online training tools.
A picture of our healthIn the main, Canberrans enjoy relatively good health and access to great healthcare. Concerningly though, roughly half of all adult Canberrans report having a long-term health condition.1 Adding to this is the alarming number of Canberrans who report experiencing high or very high levels of psychological distress – in 2017–18 this was around one in nine adults2 and the recent and ongoing challenges presented to Canberrans will surely increase this number.Individual behaviours can play a role in chronic disease. What cannot be denied, however, is the significant influence that our everyday settings, including our workplace environments, have on our ability to make healthy choices and practice healthy behaviours.Workplaces play a critical role in protecting and promoting the physical and psychological health of workers. And the more a workplace does in this space, the more it will benefit. Healthy workers are more productive, engaged, committed and happy, both at work and in their personal lives.
1 ACT Health (2018). Healthy Canberra, Australian Capital Territory Chief Health Officer’s Report 2018. ACT Government: Canberra.
2 ABS (2018). National Health Survey: First Results, 2017-18. Cat No. 4364.0.55.001. ABS: Canberra.
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Free supportHealthier Work provides free support to local businesses to develop and implement annual health and wellbeing plans that can activate both individual behaviour change and, critically, change workplace cultures and environments (see pages 9–10 for suggested approaches). Through the Healthier Work Recognition Scheme, businesses advance in status each year that they commit to workplace health and wellbeing. Many of these businesses operate over multiple sites and have diverse workplaces. As at 29 May 2020, Healthier Work is supporting 67 local businesses, listed on pages 6–7. Participation in our Recognition Scheme is currently as follows:
• Platinum Status – 23 ACT businesses are recognised with Platinum Status because they have consistently implemented a health and wellbeing plan for four or more years.
• Gold Status – A total of 11 businesses hold Gold Status, having demonstrated an ongoing commitment to health and wellbeing for a minimum of three years.
• Silver Status – 12 businesses have progressed from their first year into Silver Status.
• Recognised Status – From a total of 21 businesses, nine came on board this financial year and the remaining 12 are soon due to progress to Silver Status.
Workplace health and wellbeing programs can take time to effect substantial or lasting change – as demonstrated by many of our Platinum and Gold Recognised workplace case studies. They require a long-term investment, with adequate resourcing and commitment. But with time, persistence and following best practice, the benefits to workers and workplaces can be significant.
Mentally healthier workplacesAn area that workplaces can have a great deal of influence over, and indeed have legislated obligations around, is the psychological health of workers. In February 2020, we launched our Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative. This initiative has been a priority of our Minister, Suzanne Orr MLA.This initiative recognises the positive influence workplaces can have on the mental health of Canberrans. Businesses that pledge to become a mentally healthier workplace commit to doing our online self-assessment and developing an action plan addressing six key areas known to influence how mentally healthy a workplace is. Workplaces have access to a range of supports along the way.
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FOREWORD (CONTINUED)
The Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative strengthens Healthier Work’s ability to support workplaces in the area of mental health. There has never been a more important time for workplaces to prioritise the mental health of their workforce through supportive workplace cultures, practices and programs.Over the next 12 months Healthier Work will continue to prioritise mental health in its provision of workplace supports, while acknowledging the important bi-directional relationship between physical and psychological health.With the formation of the new Office of the Work Health and Safety Commissioner, Healthier Work will review its model of delivery to ensure it leverages on the opportunities and relationships the broader work of the office affords. I am honoured to oversee this transition.I trust you will enjoy reading about the many local businesses and their various approaches to investing in the health and wellbeing of their workforce, including how businesses have responded to the many challenges presented to them this year.Finally, I congratulate all our participating workplaces and thank them for their commitment to creating safe and healthy workplaces.
Jacqueline Agius ACT Work Health and Safety Commissioner
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Healthier Work Day Forum – 2019, Ann Harding Conference Centre, University of Canberra
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WORKPLACES PARTICIPATING IN OUR RECOGNITION SCHEME
PLATINUM FOUR YEARS +
ActewAGL Retail
AIATSIS
Animal Health Australia
Barmco Mana McMurray
Bradley Allen Love Lawyers
Canberra Labor Club Group
Capital Chemist Wanniassa
CIT Centre for Health, Community & Science
Civium
Delnas Metal Roofing
Early Childhood Australia
Goodwin Aged Care
Greening Australia
Lend Lease
Moulis Legal
National Archives of Australia
National Capital Private Hospital
National Community Care/National Healthcare Service/National Nursing Agency
Office of Parliamentary Counsel
OPC IT
PhysioSport O’Connor
Shaw Surveys
Synergy Group
GOLD THIRD YEAR
Griffin Legal
Heart Foundation ACT
National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI)
Netier
Nexus Human Services
Pharmacy Guild of Australia
Radford College
Red Cross
TSA Management ACT
UNSW Canberra at the ADFA
Woden Community Services
SILVER SECOND YEAR
Allied Health Clinical Education Unit
Aspen Medical
Bendigo Bank – ACT Branches
Canberra Girls Grammar School
Community Services #1
Dexar Group
Epicon
Evoenergy Greenway Office
National Library of Australia
Questacon
The Woden School
Universities Australia
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RECOGNISED FIRST YEAR
Ainslie Group
Alta Pete
AMA Projects
Australian War Memorial
Canberra and Region Visitors Centre
Cancer Council ACT
Centre for Invasive Species Solutions
Department of Finance
Elections ACT
Icon Water
Interaction Consulting Group
Karinya House
Kingsford Smith School
Master Builders Association ACT
McDonald Jones Homes ACT
National Museum of Australia
OzHelp
Royal Australian Mint
Scott Leggo Gallery
WorkSafe ACT
WSP Australia
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ABOUT HEALTHIER WORKHealthier Work is a free ACT Government service established to support local businesses to thrive as health promoting environments.
Healthier Work’s areas of focus include healthy eating, physical activity, mental health through social and emotional wellbeing, reduction of alcohol consumption and smoking cessation.
Getting startedYou can access free support and resources from Healthier Work at any stage of your workplace health and wellbeing journey – from gaining management commitment and undertaking a needs assessment, to establishing your health and wellbeing plan, maintaining momentum with its implementation, right through to monitoring your program’s effectiveness.
Step by step plan for a healthier workplace
GET STARTEDCommitment from management
GET ORGANISEDFind your champion/start a working group
GET INFORMATIONWhat do workers want/need? What facilities are available?
PLAN ITWhat? When?
How?
DO ITLet staff know how to be part
of it
CHECK ITHow is it going?
REVIEW ITDid it work?
CONTACT HEALTHIER WORK AT ANY STAGE
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Healthier Work also offers a range of ongoing capacity building, networking and business promotion opportunities to ensure you are fully supported. During COVID-19, many of these supports have been available online or on a virtual platform.
VISITS, RESOURCES AND ADVICE
Personalised visitsAdvice to address your particular workplace needs
Ideas and online resources (e.g. guides, scorecard, ROI calculator)
CHALLENGES AND REWARDS
Photo competitionRecognition + discounts and
special offers
BUSINESS PROMOTION
Social media presenceCase study profiles
Networking opportunities
BREAKFASTS
Meet other business peopleCelebrate your Healthier
Work statusLearn from others’
experiences
MENTORING LUNCHES
Learn from other businessesMeet new peoplePick up resources
Get motivated
Finding the right mix Developing the right mix of program components and strategies is critical to a successful workplace health and wellbeing plan.
LeadershipYour managers have a particularly important leadership role to play, not only through monitoring the health of workers but by good role modelling and nurturing healthy cultures. Your leaders need to be appropriately trained and supported, so include signature leadership behaviours in your plan.
Getting buy-in from staffIt is vital to involve employees in initial discussions to maximise participation in health and wellbeing activities at your workplace. Through this, ideas can be formulated about what kinds of activities or initiatives are needed, how they might be introduced and who might like to be involved. This participatory approach will help ensure your initiative or program is relevant to workers and the environment at your workplace. Ideally, your programs will provide some variety to cater for differing individual interests.
Two-pronged approach to changeA combination of people and place strategies is the most effective approach to create a healthier workplace. People strategies look to build your employees’ knowledge, positive attitudes towards and active participation in healthier behaviours. Health and wellbeing activities that are educational or motivational in nature therefore tend to be classed as people strategies. Place strategies are about providing a workplace environment that promotes health through its facilities, supportive cultures and/or policies.
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1. People strategiesPeople strategies help to build your staff’s knowledge, awareness and positive attitudes towards health and wellbeing in the workplace. Promoting a positive outlook that highlights the proven benefits of physical activity, healthy eating and healthy work–life integration is fundamental to achieving improved awareness and program involvement. The key is to create educational initiatives that are not only highly informative, but also fun. These can be in the form of:• one-off training sessions, for example, a healthy cooking demonstration• challenges and competitions such as boot camps, Steptember or Dry July• participating in special events like RUOK? Day or other fundraisers.
2. Place strategiesPlace strategies look to create a workplace environment that influences staff behaviour as part of their day-to-day work routine. These can be low-cost, such as:• making health and wellbeing an agenda item at team meetings• establishing a regular lunchtime walking group• ensuring healthier options are included at morning teas or catered events• encouraging less sedentary behaviour – for example, using the stairs instead of the lift.
Other types of place strategies, such as improved facilities, new or revised policies, and fostering a supportive culture can have an even greater impact beyond the workplace and for longer periods of time. Examples include:• improving access to facilities that support healthy choices and healthy behaviours, such
as change rooms, showers and bike racks• improving the psychosocial culture through, for example, good management practices,
good work design, promotion of healthy work–life integration and recognition of staff achievements
• policies that support healthy choices and healthy behaviours, such as a smoke-free workplace, and alcohol and healthy catering policies.
Mentally healthier workplacesIn February 2020, Healthier Work launched its Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative, which has strengthened our ability to support workplaces in the area of mental health. With mental illness now the leading cause of sickness absence and long-term work incapacity in Australia, it’s time for Canberra’s workplaces to make a further commitment to employee wellbeing. By creating a workplace that prevents harm, promotes a positive culture, protects wellbeing and provides support for those who need it, businesses can ensure that their people can do their best and be their best.
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Taking the pledge We’re asking local businesses to take the Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge. With support from Healthier Work, your pledge involves committing to:1. Design jobs to minimise harm2. Promote positive factors3. Strengthen resilience4. Intervene early5. Support recovery6. Reduce stigma.Now is the time to take action. Start with an online pledge via our website.
Road to becoming a mentally healthier workplace
Establish commitment and
leadership support
Complete online self-assessment
Develop action plan
Submit action planReview outcomes
Adjust action
• Job design• Organisational factors• Team factors
ANALYSIS
SIX KEY ACTION AREAS• Design jobs to minimise
harm• Promote postitive factors• Strengthen resilience• Intervene early• Support recovery• Reduce stigma
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PLEDGE WALLCongratulations to these organisations and businesses that have taken the pledge to become mentally healthier workplaces:
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DID YOU KNOW?Tracking staff health and wellbeing at your workplace has never been easier—try our free Workplace Score Card to establish baseline data and measure progress.
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PLATINUM WORKPLACES
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE WORKPLACES FOR CONSISTENTLY IMPLEMENTING A HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN FOR FOUR OR MORE YEARS�
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ActewAGL Retail – Safety Ninjas 160 staffActewAGL Retail is the Canberra region’s leading energy provider.
After a few years of implementing proactive health and wellbeing programs, the team at ActewAGL introduced a fun new concept to drive their annual plan of activities.“Safety, health and wellness programs within ActewAGL Retail are led by our Retail Safety Ninjas!” says Tony Muckle, Group Manager Brand, Marketing and Customer Channels. “They’re a passionate group of staff who work to develop and implement engaging and relevant activities for our team.” They have even designed a couple of ninja mascots to reinforce messaging around safety, wellness and health – a clever way to impart valuable ideas that cut through the busyness of day-to-day.Asking the important questionsThe team has organised various activities throughout the year, including a trivia night to raise funds for Care Financial (promoting community
and social engagement), sun safety education and interactive personal security/safety classes. To reinforce mental health support, several of the team’s activities were centred around RUOK? Day. “Staff shared their personal experiences with mental health, plus we held a ‘Shout your mate a coffee day’,” says Tony.ActewAGL distributed 2-for-1 coffee vouchers and encouraged their staff to take someone else for a coffee and ask the important question … RUOK? “It’s such a worthwhile cause,” says Tony.
“Safety, health and wellness programs within ActewAGL Retail are led by our
Retail Safety Ninjas!”
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DID YOU KNOW?Healthy staff are more likely to be productive, take less sick leave and have greater levels of energy and concentration. That’s good for business!
AIATSIS – Investing in ‘place’ 178 staffAIATSIS (the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies) is Australia’s only national institution focused exclusively on the diverse history, cultures and heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia. Their unique knowledge, resources and expertise enable them to tell the nation’s story and enhance the lives of all Australians.
A building redesign provided AIATSIS an opportunity to rethink their office design to ensure it met their health and wellbeing needs. Long-term health and wellbeing champion for AIATSIS, Amit Barkay, says with the support of management, they were able to invest in ‘place’ initiatives to promote healthier lifestyles.“We moved all desks near windows for the natural light and installed sit-stand desks connected to an app, which helps staff set goals and reminders as well as monitor their physical activity,” says Amit.The team reduced the number of kitchen break-out areas from eight to five as part of a strategy to encourage staff to move more and connect with one another. They also cleverly added a standing-only meeting room to encourage much shorter meetings!Getting outdoorsGiven their lakeside location, AIATSIS staff head outside the office as often as possible.“Over the summer months, staff enjoyed relaxing in our ‘backyard’ area overlooking the lake during their breaks,” says Amit. “We installed a large barbecue, lots of seating with sun umbrellas and trialled a herb garden. “The staff got together regularly to play badminton and cricket in this area or just throw a frisbee about in the open areas between the gum trees.”Cycling is also a consistent aspect of the AIATSIS health and wellbeing plan.
“Our ‘cycling to work’ promotion has been so successful that we had to double the size of our bike cage to accommodate
everyone’s bicycles.”
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Pandemic measuresWhile the AIATSIS site closed to the public due to COVID-19 measures, AIATSIS moved to a 50/50 model where approximately one half of the staff work from home and the other half work in the office on a week about rostered basis. “One of the ways our teams stay connected is to do 10 to 15 minutes of stretching together at the start of online Zoom meeting catch-ups,” explains Amit.Maintaining momentumWhile some staff changes during the year interrupted the usual plans and activities, Amit continued to push forward.“We’re organising a presentation in partnership with Healthier Work to reinforce the relevance of why it’s important for us to have a plan for our health and wellbeing at work,” says Amit. Like-minded workplacesEarly in 2020, Healthier Work held consultations with Platinum workplaces, which was valuable for Amit, who has been involved in the program for more than five years. “It was a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people who have a wealth of experience and were able to share their successes and challenges in implementing staff health and wellbeing initiatives over the long-term,” says Amit. “It’s important to talk to similar workplaces that have implemented the program. It is amazing how much their ‘lessons learned’ can teach you.”
Barmco Mana McMurray Pty Ltd – Fun to alleviate stress 14 staffBarmco Mana McMurray (BMM) provide extensive construction and building services to government, scientific/laboratory, healthcare, Defence, commercial, hospitality, office and mixed-used projects. They take a long-term sustainability approach to construction projects and building control system interfacing.
A long-term commitment to a healthy workplace is now an embedded part of the BMM team’s culture.“BMM is privileged to be a part of the program,” says Trent Gourgaud, Director. “It has greatly inspired each of us, reduced absenteeism and improved productivity.”Trent says that their plan offers something for everyone, by drawing out the more reserved staff members to feel more engaged in the group. And while some people may be more drawn to the physical activities, others may prefer to commit to the six-monthly blood donation or multicultural Fridays.“It has made us more health conscious,” says Trent. “We have a strong dedication with a shared enthusiasm – we have a common goal when we undertake an event or initiative.”Responding to changeEven before the onset of COVID-19, the BMM team had to postpone some planned activities due to the difficult summer weather conditions.Then, with COVID-19, BMM developed the necessary precautions to support employees and workplaces, including reassuring staff about their jobs and adjusting their plans to ensure everyone was looking after themselves.“With our client-based approach to support the healthcare industry, BMM’s workload has become
very demanding during this period,” says Trent. “To alleviate stress levels, we introduced a 20-minute foosball game break daily.”
Usually a Friday activity, Foosball is helping to bump up team morale every day. In fact,
they had to buy a new foosball table as player skills had become so fierce!
BMM also purchased an e-bike for communal use so staff could use it to attend nearby meetings or site visits, to run errands, or simply take a few rounds around the area for a quick break. Photo competition winners!After winning the 2019 photo competition, the BMM team were able to invest in some new items.“The photo competition prize allowed us to purchase equipment for common use and explore additional events and initiatives,” explains Trent. BMM knows how valuable it is to commit to their health and wellbeing plan and make it part of the ‘every day’ – something they have been doing for more than five years.“We are looking forward for more years of commitment, supporting our employees’ health and wellbeing,” says Trent.
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Early Childhood Australia – Building connection across sites 76 staffEarly Childhood Australia (ECA) is the national peak body for early childhood acting in the interests of young children, their families and those in the early childhood sector. ECA advocates to ensure quality, social justice and equity in all issues relating to the education and care of children aged birth to eight years.
The ECA team is spread throughout Australia, with offices in each state and territory. This can make fulfilling a health and wellbeing plan trickier, particularly when attempting to run the same activities at all sites.“We have a wide range of office arrangements including leased single offices, shared offices and work from home situations,” explains Gregory Mowle, Finance and Operations General Manager. “This sometimes makes it a challenge to implement the wellbeing action plan in a coherent way.“We work hard to make sure that wellbeing activities are translatable into the different settings. For example, our head office had a water cooler installed and we made sure our staff in other offices had access to filtered drinking water in their settings.”Similarly, options like riding or walking to work, stand-up desks, Steptember participation, and online mindfulness sessions are all able to translate across locations. And staff are keen to get involved.
“We had 75% of staff participate in the Steptember challenge and the fruit bowls
are really popular and appreciated.”
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Working from homeThe COVID-19 pandemic has provided another opportunity to consider how to stay connected and motivated when physically distanced from one another.“We have been sharing hints and tips for working from home, as well as accessing webinars around working remotely and being productive,” says Gregory. “We stay connected through video meetings and Slack, get video messages from the CEO, and we ask how teams are meeting the ‘work from home challenge’. We even have virtual morning teas!”ECA’s employee assistance program has been particularly well promoted with a utilisation rate of almost 9%.“This is a high rate compared to similar organisations in the sector,” says Gregory. “And rather than this reflecting that our staff may have more issues, we see it as our message to look after yourself has been received. We also chose our EAP company for its ethical approach – their profits are returned to nominated charities.”
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Goodwin Aged Care – Wellness is the goal 540+ staffGoodwin Aged Care is a community-based, not-for-profit organisation that provides Canberra and regional communities with experience-driven independent living villages, reliable in-home care, and superior standard residential aged care facilities.
Work productivity is dependent on staff wellness, so Goodwin Aged Care has always concentrated on keeping their team healthy and engaged.“Our wellbeing at work strategy guides all aspects of wellness at Goodwin,” explains Turin Prasantha, Manager People and Culture. “Our aim is to have a team of the most talented and committed people. “Supporting and looking after their wellbeing is key to our continued ability to serve the health needs of our community and deliver exceptional and consistent care into the future.”A mix of activitiesThese goals are driven by regular and varying activities, ranging from Staff Appreciation Week to on-site yoga and meditation. Goodwin also offers discounted fruit and vegetables for staff at the local markets, and reimburses quit smoking products such as nicotine patches.“Receiving staff feedback or comment on an activity is a great way to get the practical picture of how it is progressing and if any further changes or modifications are required to make it even more successful,” says Toral Modi, Wellbeing and Rehabilitation Advisor.
It’s certainly not easy to engage such a large workforce – more than 500 people – who work different hours and in different locations. Yet Goodwin’s processes are now an embedded and successful element of everyday practice.“Increased staff satisfaction, engagement and retention, as well as minimum workplace injuries and accidents, are our biggest achievements,” says Toral.Reliance on support“Healthier Work has always been a good mentor for any organisation who is thriving for change,” says Toral. “They supported us with constant encouragement and by providing vital information on any new wellness initiatives through catch-ups and get-togethers.”
“The Goodwin Wellness Plan focuses on leveraging our positive workplace culture so that we support our people to thrive
and free them to do what they do best for our residents and clients.”
Not only has Healthier Work provided guidance for the team’s wellness activities, Goodwin’s management team actively encourage positive health – both at work and at home.“The Goodwin management team lead by example,” says Turin. “Considering the aged care industry work pressure, management has always been positive and engaged with any new wellness initiative or project. It places value on the role our leaders play in driving positive workplace culture, employee engagement and outcomes for outstanding service quality standards. “It also highlights the need to change systems, processes and structures to enable our people to focus their efforts and to support their physical, social and emotional wellbeing at work.”Dealing with COVID-19 To manage the health and wellbeing of an identified vulnerable group of people during a mass virus outbreak, Goodwin Aged Care has put in place their infection control policies and business continuity plans. Importantly, Goodwin has also remained committed to the wellbeing of their staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have offered free counselling for all staff to help with managing stress and anxiety,” says Toral. “For those who faced isolation, we organised debriefing sessions and regular phone catch-ups to stay connected.”For those who could work remotely, they were given access to all applications and systems to ensure continuity of business operations.“We also provided every possible support for those who needed to take leave if they were sick or had to care for a sick family member.”
DID YOU KNOW?Employees of businesses that actively promote staff health and wellbeing are three times more likely to view their workplace as a highly desirable place to work compared to those that do not.
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National Nursing Agency | National Healthcare Services | National Community Care – Swap it or drop it
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120 staffThe three companies – National Nursing Agency, National Healthcare Services and National Community Care – provide carers and nurses to the Canberra community in hospitals and nursing homes, along with community care within client homes.
As many workplaces in the Platinum category attest, over time, being part of Healthier Work becomes embedded into their organisational culture.“With lots of activities, including yoga sessions and workshops on healthy eating for shift workers, and regular communication with employees, it has become part of our culture,” says Lisa Walker, Director, National Healthcare Services.Lisa says it’s important for management to explain why a healthy work environment is so critical to everyone working there.
“Managers are leading through change, so they need to explain why certain
changes will help us achieve our vision of a healthy workplace.”
Flexible plansThe team added safe alcohol consumption and quit smoking packs to their plan, but found staff weren’t particularly interested in these ideas. The three companies know there is no point pushing an idea or initiative that doesn’t generate interest – flexibility is essential to keeping people engaged in the program.“We just introduced a simple ‘Swap it or drop it’ 30-day challenge instead,” says Lisa. Other activitiesOther popular initiatives for National Nursing Agency, National Healthcare Services and National Community Care included a family-orientated outdoor Christmas function with games, flu vaccinations, yoga sessions, and a focus on mental health days such as RUOK? Day.“We fundraise and donate as a team to local causes of meaning to our employees,” says Lisa. “Plus, at every quarterly team meeting we do an activity or give away such as skipping ropes and frisbees,” says Lisa.
OPC IT – Lunchtime Uno competition 30 staffOPC IT provides end-to-end IT and Drupal web services to corporate, government and education clients. They are ISO certified in Quality and Information Security Systems Management.
An impressive plan of health and wellbeing activities keeps everyone at OPC IT connected and focused, with daily fresh fruit platters, daily meditation and walking meetings. It is the opportunity to be social together that sparks the most interest.
“We have an Uno tournament running and it provides a bit of levity and respite to the work day,” says Cathy Norton, General Manager. “Plus, our soup and morning tea groups are very well supported.”
The team makes an effort to offer plenty of variety throughout the year so everyone feels included.
“We have several team members who work onsite at client premises and miss out on a lot of the activities such as daily fruit and meditation,” explains Cathy. “We had the morning teas delivered to them onsite to make them feel connected, and ran some of the activities out of business hours or during lunch to give them a chance to join.”
Having a healthy workplace is a significant focus for the management team, who entrust the health and wellbeing budget to the Social Club so all activities are integrated across the seasons.
“The management team is extremely engaged in the happiness and health of the team,” says Cathy.
“The more thought and effort you put in, the more successful the program is
and the greater the engagement.”
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Snap happyAs a short-listed entrant for the Healthier Work photo competition, OPC IT worked hard to show all their activities – including games nights and supporting community initiatives like Camp Quality – all in the one photo.
“We were delighted to be shortlisted for the photo comp this year,” says Cathy. “We had a lot of fun planning and taking the photo and it was a great team builder. We were quite proud of all the activities we do that we managed to cram into that shot!”
Dealing with COVID-19 Moving the entire OPC IT workforce to home-based work during COVID-19 didn’t stop the team from being focused on their wellbeing.
“Being an IT company, we were not only able to seamlessly get everyone up and running at home, but also the majority of our clients,” says Cathy. “We speak to everyone via Microsoft Teams and we share fun things like home office set-ups, pet pictures and good news stories.”
To ensure balance, the team runs twice-weekly trivia (which an employee suggested and is expected to continue when normal work resumes) and share many resources through the EAP and online webinars to help the team cope with isolation.
“We’re planning after-hours virtual ‘catch ups’ and our postponed Taste of Harmony lunch will become a synchronised virtual event.”
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Synergy Group – Rewarding supportive behaviours 300+ staffEstablished in 1999 in Canberra, Synergy Group is more than your typical consultancy. From accounting and assurance, through to transformation, program management, digital solutions or business analytics, Synergy is ready to be involved irrespective of the size and scale.
An advocate for a healthy, happy and high performing workplace, Synergy Group’s CEO Galia Cornish has been a regular speaker at Healthier Work networking events – providing inspiration and energy to many of Canberra’s workplaces.Managing a large consultancy firm, Galia says having a clear intent to be a healthier workplace is critical.“We integrate healthier and happier work as core to everything we do – so if work isn’t healthy and fun, we are getting it wrong,” says Galia.This philosophy is inbuilt into their culture and the whole team is empowered to help find ways to make the workplace healthier.More than a planSupported by a monetary investment, Synergy’s health and wellbeing program is designed to cover numerous people and place ideas to meet the needs of their large employee base.“We have a deliberate approach to improve the overall psychological wellbeing of individuals, teams and the organisation,” explains Galia.
“We encourage rest and recovery – so people can find their own tempo. We have an abundant array of options to support physical health and we schedule healthy activities into everyone’s workday to encourage the formation of healthy micro habits.”It certainly helps that Galia is a yoga teacher herself; regularly encouraging people to join her on the mat to re-centre.“We know healthy and happy people are engaged,” says Galia. “We have seen more than 80% engagement and incredible productivity – but more importantly, there’s a vibe that is compelling to be around.”An optimistic outlook forms part of everything the Synergy team does.“It’s important to reward supportive behaviours,” says Galia.
“We empower everyone to have a go and enjoy the successes and
failures equally.”
SNAPSHOTS
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ActewAGL RetailEnergy provider – 160 staff• Retail Safety Ninjas• RUOK? Day – shout your mate a
coffee day• Trivia night to raise funds for
Care Financial• Sun safety education• Interactive personal safety/security classes
AIATSISGovernment – 178 staff• Heavy promotion of EAP• Annual Pedal Power ACT
‘Cycle to work’ challenge• Sit-stand desks• Standing-only meeting room• Stretches before meetings
Animal Health AustraliaNot-for-profit – 25 staff• StairWell Challenge• Chair yoga/stretches to combat
sedentary behaviour• Gratitude board• Promote outdoor furniture use
Barmco Mana McMurray Engineering – 14 staff• Blood donation every six months• Guided Segway tour around
Lake Burley Griffin• Skateboarding/cycling • Empowerment program which included
Workplace Tune Up, Wellbeing at Work by OzHelp
• Fruit basket delivery• Walking and standing meetings• Foosball matches every Friday
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Bradley Allen Love LawyersProfessionals – 75 staff• Salad club• Lunchtime yoga sessions• RUOK? Day• Mocktail night• Promoted ‘Stretching at your desk’• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
Canberra Labor Club GroupHospitality – 150 staff• Mental health awareness training• Reviewed staff menu to ensure healthier
options are available• Volunteer program• Steptember• Group personal training sessions
Capital Chemist WanniassaHealth – 25 staff• Dry July• Walking meetings• Healthy meal planning• Building knowledge about mental health• Team building exercises
CIT Centre for Health, Community & ScienceHealth – 200 staff• Advocated for healthier choices at
CITSA cafes• Implemented stretching app on
staff computers• Online quiz about reducing
alcohol consumption• Promote alcohol policy
CiviumProfessionals – 75 staff• Healthier options at staff barbecues• Chess in break out area• Health tips on intranet• Fruit bowls• Promoted Quitcoach app on intranet
Delnas Metal RoofingConstruction – 26 staff• Movember • Promoted importance of regular GP visits
for men’s health• Reminders about packing a healthy lunch
Early Childhood AustraliaNot-for-profit/Advocacy – 76 staff• Move together for Cerebral Palsy• Fruit bowl • Mindfulness Interest Group provides
monthly online lunchtime mindfulness sessions
• Extended lunch break for wellbeing activities such as book club, walking group, swimming
• Regular inclusion of Health & Wellbeing Tips in weekly newsletter
• Reconciliation Challenge • EAP counselling services
Goodwin Aged Care ServicesAged care/Community care – 540+ staff• Multicultural Food Festival• On-site education on stretching
and warm up• Dementia Memory Walk• Canberra Times Fun Run• On-site yoga and meditation workshop• Staff appreciation week• Reimbursement of nicotine replacement
therapies, such as patches• Discounted fruit and vegetables at
Fyshwick Markets• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
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Greening AustraliaNot-for-profit – 15 staff• Healthier lunch options for staff events• Sit–stand workstations available
for everyone• Encouraged time off during quiet periods• Promote high water intake, especially out
in field
Lend LeaseConstruction / Real Estate – 55 staff• Charity golf day• Feb Fast• 10,000 steps Global Corporate Challenge• Dexa body scans and health challenge
Moulis LegalProfessionals – 18 staff• Weekly mindfulness hints and
recommended activities• Seminar on good posture• Cooking class at Christmas party• Provided non-alcoholic/light alcohol drinks
at work functions• Flexible working hours • Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
National Archives of AustraliaCultural attraction – 380 staff• Nutrition seminar – the nine steps to
healthy eating• Yoga sessions for Women’s Health Week• Steptember• Movember• Annual flu vaccinations• Health checks • Staff recognition for exceptional efforts• Support for Quit program• Fruit Box deliveries
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National Capital Private HospitalHealth – 450+ staff• Recipe Club (including e-book)• Stair Challenge – linked to step challenge• Circulate Beyond Blue online
learning modules• Recognition for exceptional efforts
National Nursing Agency / National Healthcare Services / National Community CareNursing – 120 staff• Workshop about healthy living• Trade cakes and pastries for fruit platters,
sandwiches, and other healthy alternatives• Flu vaccinations• Promote information about joining local
sporting clubs and opportunities to get physically active
• ‘Swap it or Drop It’ 30-Day Challenge • Fundraise and donate as a team to local
causes of meaning to our employees• Family orientated Christmas party
Office of Parliamentary CounselLegal – 110 staff• Healthy snack and drink options through
social club• Promotion of EAP• Flu vaccinations• Seated massages• Priori-Tea for Beyond Blue• Lifeline talk on suicide prevention• Superannuation talks• Mindful in May promoting meditation and
other activities
OPC ITInformation Technology – 30 staff• Daily meditation and fruit• Regular company mingles and
carpark BBQs• Lunch and Learn sessions • Walking/stand up meetings• Social/family activities – Family Fun Day,
Taste of Harmony lunch, Escape Room nights
• Winter Soup Group, Spring Morning Tea Group
• Dry July
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PhysioSport O’ConnorHealth – 50 staff• RUOK? Day • Displayed mental health
awareness posters• Lunch time walks up Black Mountain• Provided healthier snacks for morning tea
Shaw SurveysProfessionals – four staff• Refurbishment of office environment to
include stand up desks• Kingston to Manuka morning coffee walk
three times a week• Physical activity Christmas party (laser tag!)• RUOK? conversation convoy breakfast
Synergy GroupProfessionals – 300+ staff• Yoga• Wellbeing apps• Dry July• Team sports• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
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DID YOU KNOW?Sugary soft drinks have a lot of
empty kilojoules. Just one sugary drink a day can add more than 6kg to your weight over a year. Choose
tap water instead—it’s good for your health, your wallet and the planet!
DID YOU KNOW?Creating a relaxing, well-equipped lunchroom, where staff can take breaks and catch up informally with team members, can promote a positive work culture.
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GOLD WORKPLACES
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE WORKPLACES FOR CONSISTENTLY IMPLEMENTING A HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN FOR THREE YEARS�
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Nexus Human Services – Monthly focus 30 staffNexus is a Disability Employment Services provider and assists people with a disability or mental health condition to find a job and provide support to people who are working. A Work Assist Program is offered to support people who are already working and needing additional support in the workplace. NDIS services are also on offer.
The team at Nexus Human Services spend their days helping other people. So, investing in their own wellbeing is particularly valuable for their productivity.Through simple challenges – like drinking more water or taking more steps – the team stays focused.“Having a focus area each month keeps staff more engaged,” says CEO Lisa McPherson. “And having a plan for the year really keeps us on track.”A straightforward activity each month means everyone gets the chance to be involved.
“Juicing June was a hit, where staff enjoyed making fresh juice in the office.”
Maintaining momentumLisa, as CEO, is a primary driver of the program, which tends to help with the momentum for planning and engagement.“We are lucky that the management team are the ones so heavily involved in Healthier Work – they take the lead,” says Lisa.Though, Lisa notes, it is useful to spread the responsibility.“If you have staff who are harder to engage, give them responsibility for an activity,” Lisa says.
Interstate and online workThe challenge for Nexus is how to keep interstate staff involved in the health and wellbeing activities, and it continues to be an area they need to find creative solutions for.“Involving our interstate sites is certainly the primary challenge,” says Lisa.Though many of their activities can work across sites – such as Stretch and Breathe Month and Multicultural Day – they continue to explore other ways to connect.During COVID-19, staff started working at home in an online environment, and this generated a new perspective on how to engage.“When we all started working from home it offered a fantastic opportunity to review our processes and we have had many new ideas for our health and wellbeing plan, including how best to involve our interstate sites.”This includes starting a team app with links to exercises that can be done throughout the day. Staff can also add photos and have a more informal chat. “We have started a 14-day challenge and each day at 12.30pm staff can log into Zoom and complete the challenge for the day,” says Lisa. “This might be stretches or 10 push-ups. We have three leaders who take us through the challenge each day.”
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Radford College – Responding to change 280 staffRadford College is a thriving independent school dedicated to educating and supporting students from early learning to year 12 to become compassionate, adaptable, global citizens.
For schools like Radford College, 2020 has dramatically shifted the way education is delivered.“Heading into term one the smoke was still lingering,” explains Sophie Davis, the school’s nurse. “Many staff and students returned feeling stressed and anxious.“We were able to move activities inside and did regular air quality monitoring with monitors that we purchased for the school, plus we were able to keep staff up-to-date with real time air quality through email updates.”This helped address staff worries and keep people safe. Then COVID-19 arrived soon after. Virus responsesWhile Radford College has been committed to their health and wellbeing goals for many years, the impact of the coronavirus tested their usual practices – with immediate effect.“We had staff and students who had been in China during the initial outbreak and they were required to self-isolate at home for two weeks from their arrival back into Australia,” says Sophie. The school immediately implemented better hand sanitisation and more support for staff. “High-risk staff were given the opportunity to work from home prior to government shut-downs,” says Sophie. “Towards the end of term one, we had about 45 students on campus and a very skeleton staff.
“Staff have been given support and training to be able to move to teaching through an online platform, as well as equipment to be able to work from home.”A modified planBefore COVID-19, staff at Radford College actively took part in Pilates, boot camps, Heart Health checks and their social club.“We still had our scheduled flu vaccination clinic in May, but we have had to cancel our usual social club, boot camps and Pilates activities for the time being,” says Sophie.
The staff are finding creative ways to keep in touch and manage their wellbeing during an uncertain time. “We’re looking at organising a Mental Health First Aid training session online,” says Sophie. “We will take up the Steptember challenge again this year – hopefully we won’t still be isolating, but if we are, it will make the challenge results a bit more interesting!”
“We continue to do ‘Pat on the back’ awards and ‘Friday funnies’ via email and
team meetings.”G
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TSA Management ACT – Best4Life 30 staffTSA is a project management company that manages, consults and partners to bring projects to life. TSA’s business success has been always based on the quality and happiness of its staff. TSA fosters a culture of forward thinking, agility, dedication, teamwork and collaboration where all staff are valued and the mental and physical wellness is the cornerstone to success.
TSA Management ACT (formerly Xact Project Consultants) implemented a ‘Best4Life’ Program companywide to enhance their commitment to health and wellbeing.“The program embraces four key pillars: Healthy Living, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind and Healthy Connections,” says Associate Director Paul Middleton. “We use these pillars to identify and launch various events and initiatives to promote wellbeing for all our staff.” Under ‘Healthy Living’, the team aims to create a balance between work and life commitments including personal and career development, finances and family. For ‘Healthy Body’, it’s about raising awareness and knowledge of food and nutrition and encouraging staff to take action to improve their health and fitness.“For ‘Healthy Mind’, we focus on building resilience and positive mental health, while ‘Healthy Connections’ is about the opportunity to create positive connections with our people and the communities in which we live, work, and play,” says Paul.Bringing the team togetherWith staff located in multiple offices and busily addressing the needs of their clients, Paul says the challenge is getting everyone together.
“Scheduling a time for activities where the whole team can participate can be challenging,” says Paul. “Recently, we came up with a strategy to get everyone involved with the planning of the events. As we all work in small teams, each team was tasked with organising at least one event per calendar year, which has improved engagement.“TSA Management now has a Best4Life team that collectively manages similar strategies throughout all offices,” says Paul.It all makes a differenceTSA Management celebrated their Gold Status with Healthier Work in 2019 and their approach is now well and truly embedded in the company’s culture, even with new starters coming on board.“A healthy workplace should consider more than the body and mind and the office environment,” explains Paul.
“Considering employee lifestyles, connections and external forces outside work definitely helps with staff wellbeing,
focus and drive at work.”
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SNAPSHOTS
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Griffin LegalProfessionals – 20 staff• Healthy catering guidelines• Implemented mental health action plan• Encouraged staff activities like
lunchtime basketball• Stress resilience sessions• Lunch time walking group• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
Heart Foundation ACTNot-for-profit – 12 staff• Lunchtime walks• Stretching tips• ‘In Recognition Program’ – thank and
recognise staff• Fresh fruit box
National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI)Not-for-profit – 23 staff• Extended fruit bowls to State offices• Seminars on managing stress and change• Health ‘tune-ups’ for staff• Display posters with health messages
NetierIT – 24 staff• ‘How to manage stress at work and
mindfulness thinking’ workshops • ‘How to maintain a healthy
diet at work’ seminar• Promoted our free gym memberships • Encouraged staff to take breaks and have
a chill-out space with books, TED talks and magazines for inspiration
Nexus Human ServicesDisability employment – 30 staff• Step into Spring challenge• Water drinking challenge • Flu shots • Juicing days • Multicultural day • Outdoor meetings • Family day – mini golf • Stretch and breathe month • RUOK? Day
Pharmacy Guild of AustraliaHealth – 96 staff• Mental health training for managers and
individuals• Staff family social function• Fruit bowls in office• Promoted EAP• Health checks and flu vaccinations
Radford CollegeEducation – 280 staff• Staff social club• Pilates / Boot camp• ‘Pat on the back awards’ weekly• Smoke free environment• Heart Health checks• At least one ‘Be active challenge’ per year
– Steptember in 2019• Mental health training
Red CrossNot-for-profit – 38 staff• 10,000 step challenge• Promoted use of outdoor area for breaks• Lunch time walking group• FoodRedi information sessions
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TSA ManagementProfessionals – 30 staff• Outdoor boot camps• Wellness room• Best4Life team for healthy
workplace planning• Annual TSA family barbecue• Mental health and wellbeing sessions• Corporate and charity events
Woden Community ServicesNot-for-profit – 360 staff• Staff health and wellbeing survey• Games added to break room• Lunch time walks encouraged• Mindfulness sessions
Education – 400+ staff• Mental health first aid training• Staff health checks• Yoga for staff• Body groove/boot camp sessions
UNSW Canberra
DID YOU KNOW?Opportunities to reduce sitting at work can be as simple as walking over to a colleague to talk rather
than emailing or texting.
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CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE WORKPLACES FOR CONSISTENTLY IMPLEMENTING A HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN FOR TWO YEARS�
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Allied Health Clinical Education Unit (AHCEU) – Inquisitive approach to health 12 staffThe AHCEU facilitates the education of health professionals working for Canberra Health Services (CHS) and that of students from a range of local and interstate universities undertaking placements with CHS.
One of the AHCEU’s most fascinating experiments as part of their health and wellbeing plan was their two-week 2&5 fruit and vegetable eating challenge.“We were so surprised that no one could hit the target of eating two fruit and five veg for 14 days straight!” says Nicola Wardrop, the team’s Speech Pathology Clinical Educator. “Some people met their fruit quota daily, but no one could eat five serves of veg 14 days in a row, even when trying hard to do so. It was a really revealing activity because most of us thought we were meeting our targets.”Taking an inquisitive approach is a great way to implement new ways of thinking, working and living.“For our team, a lot of us have come to think of the workplace as a place for progressing and maintaining good health, not something we only think about outside of work in our private lives,” explains Nicola. “It draws attention to what we eat, do or think when we’re at work, which is such a large part of our daily lives, so it’s bound to have an impact on our overall health.”Activities pitched to interest levelsNicola says that a key part of the planning process for their team is knowing what motivates people.“You have to know your audience, so start with the things you know will engage them. Are they competitive, reflectors, initiators or passive participants? It’s also critical to consider how much
time is available and mixing activities to suit fitness levels and interests.
“Get input from people, but also make suggestions and give examples so people
know what you’re pitching.”
For instance, AHCEU offers a lunch time exercise group as well as distributing different exercise podcasts to motivate people in a variety of ways.“We also rotate the responsibility for a 30-minute stretch break, so each person has a chance at being the ‘promoter’ of that activity.”Get talkingAs expected, some initiatives generate more interest than others.“Our most well-attended activities were the exercise group and Steptember,” says Nicola. “And one of the most talked about was our Marie Kondo desk/home decluttering lecture!”As a key coordinator for health and wellbeing activities, Nicola gets lots of value out of talking with other workplaces to source new and interesting ideas.“We appreciate the get-togethers where we can hear what other workplaces are doing,” says Nicola. “We’ve definitely borrowed some ideas for our program. And the Healthier Work e-newsletter has some useful links for accessing information or circulating resources.”
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DID YOU KNOW?Over 1,800 cancer cases in Australia each year could be prevented just by being more active.
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Community Services #1 – Investing in their best selves 202 staffCommunity Services #1 is a community-based, profit for purpose organisation, managing and delivering a range of services designed to meet community needs. They exist to invest in their clients and community.
Now into their second year of health and wellbeing activities, Community Services #1 has embedded simple yet sustainable practices into the workplace.“In our second year, some activities are now considered ‘normal’, such as healthy food and snacks on offer at morning teas and events, as well as attending mental wellbeing training,” explains Linda Wakley, People and Culture Coordinator.Any activity around food is particularly popular!“We enjoy celebrating our various cultures and sharing meals and recipes. We have regular pot-luck lunches across the year to celebrate various events and enjoy the amazing dishes made by our employees.“A notable success in our Silver Year has been more communication and a shared understanding of the role mindfulness and mental wellness has in our day-to-day lives, and how to share kindness in our communities. “Ongoing training and discussions have seen an increase in knowledge on emotional support and understanding, and cohesiveness of teams,” says Linda. “Employees are proactive and feel empowered to ask for support during tough times in their lives.”
Pivoting the programSo far, times have certainly been tough in 2020!“As with most of Canberra and Australia, we have had some unusual challenging times since late 2019 and going into 2020 with smoke, bushfires, hail, and now COVID-19,” says Linda. “As with the majority of places, our business has been turned upside down. There are no contingency plans for the scale of this impact. We are constantly learning and the COVID-19 situation has been a great equaliser for all. At times, the changes in how we have adjusted work practices can be difficult, and we are proud of the way our employees have responded with flexibility and ideas to assist the organisation. “Having two-way open communication at regular times has been key, with employees having opportunities to attend all-staff meetings via Zoom with the CEO, to listen to the latest information, ask questions and provide feedback on what is working well, and what to consider changing.”Their EAP, OzHelp, has provided great resources and support to assist employees.“Our Healthier Work program was required to pivot quickly to support our employees and adapt to the changes in our new way of working,” says Linda.
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“We have grown from two champions to six across all locations.”
“We adjusted the program themes, concentrating on social and emotional wellbeing to match the needs of our employees at this particular time.”A maturing approach “Our CEO leads from the front and is fully supportive of having a program to support the workforce to be their best selves,” says Linda.“The Executive Team has noted the maturity of the program over the last year and has supported the decision to involve more champions at each of our off-site locations,” says Linda. As the main champion for Community Services #1, Linda says that once you invest in your first year – with Healthier Work’s support to set up – it is worth continuing and learning from your experiences.“Keep momentum going. Even if the activity hasn’t gone to plan, that’s okay; tweak your plans to suit the current situation as you go along,” says Linda.
“We have learnt so much over the past 12 months or so, we thank the Healthier Work team for their support and great ideas. It continues to be a fantastic experience that we are embracing to be part of our every day.”Taken the pledgeTo make an even stronger commitment to the wellbeing of their staff, Community Services #1 pledged in 2020 to making theirs a mentally healthier workplace.
DID YOU KNOW?A culture of workplace health starts at the top—capturing senior management support is key.
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Epicon Group – Simple changes for long-term impact 110 staffEpicon offers an end-to-end portfolio of solutions and services to support organisations to achieve their digital transformation and business objectives via effective IT Service Management and IT Operations. They ‘start with yes’ and go from there!
As a geographically dispersed team of 93 men and 17 women, with a passion for making a positive difference, Epicon Group (incorporating Epicon IT Solutions, Epicon Software and Service Potential) needed to be practical with their plans for health and wellbeing.“We deliver IT solutions to a wide variety of clients, both onsite and in their workspaces, so the ‘keeping it real and keeping it simple’ philosophy was most important for us,” says Shayleen Barlow, Manager, People and Culture.“We needed to ensure that what we did complemented our team, their activities, interests and how we operate. In this way we embedded the changes into our team without stretching them too far or having ambitious targets that would not be adopted.” With simplicity in mind, Epicon introduced a single celebration event each month to minimise food-based events. “We built on this by then going to 80% healthy food and 20% less healthy food at these celebrations,” explains Shayleen. “Not only is this a healthier habit, but we now have increased attendance from our dispersed workforce.”Gradual changes“We know that in our team, incremental change leads to successful long-term change,” says Shayleen. “We wanted our changed habits and practices to become an everyday routine for us to build on.”
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Even offering fruit and nuts rather than biscuits, and sugar-free sodas and mineral water instead of energy drinks, was an uncomplicated solution with big impact.And having a supportive management team to offer ideas and engage in planning continues to help with momentum.
“We did not want to make a change for a month and then revert to the old habits and practices, we wanted our changes to
become a part of how we operate.”
The benefits of a digital worldBeing an IT company, Epicon was in a better position than some organisations when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.“We are lucky to be a digital, paper-free organisation that works in the cloud so we can work anywhere and still meet client needs,” says Shayleen. “But we did increase communication substantially, led by our CEO, and changed our plan’s focus to emotional and mental wellbeing.”Epicon sent daily support emails to staff, increased the use of Yammer and video meetings for communication, and sent invites for wellbeing webinars. “The plan changed, with some activities not done and unplanned others taking precedence, but Epicon at its heart is a healthier family than when we started this journey with Healthier Work,” says Shayleen.
SNAPSHOTS
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Allied Health Clinical Education Unit (AHCEU)Health Services – 12 staff• Talk from a sleep scientist on good
sleep practices• Travel Club: share culturally themed
healthy lunches • Lunch time exercise group• Super Soups: a month of
soups/recipe exchange• Ride/walk to work challenge• Indoor gardening • Kindness/gratitude jar• Rotating duty for the 30-minute stretch
break promotor• Vegetarian challenge
Aspen MedicalHealth – 100 staff• Skincare Day• Promote mental health on internal portal• Women’s and Men’s health week• Steptember
Bendigo BankFinance – 30 staff• Mental health month events• Steptember• March Charge
Canberra Girls Grammar SchoolEducation – 340 staff• Tai Chi• Vaccinations• RUOK? Day• ‘Go Home on Time’ challenge• Financial literacy program
Community Services #1Community Services – 202 staff• Anti-poverty community lunch for 50 staff
and clients• Shared healthy salad/meat free recipes in
the staff rooms • Engaged OzHelp to present Resilience
Training at staff meetings• Mindfulness posters and Lego in the
staff room • November Family Fun Day• Taste of Harmony Day • ‘Stress down day’ with informal dress and
healthy tea break• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
Dexar GroupProperty – 46 staff• Boxing• Touch footy• Obstacle course challenge
EvoenergyEnergy – 400 staff• Expanded social groups
within organisation• Healthy cooking demonstrations• Promoted stretching exercises• Activity area with sporting equipment
for staff
Epicon GroupInformation Technology – 110 staff• Healthier snacks – nuts to complement
the daily fresh fruit• Monthly celebration morning tea • 80% healthy food at events• Promoted monthly healthier work goals
and tips on WIKI
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National Library of AustraliaGovernment – 400 staff• Promoted ‘Smoke Free’ and ‘Drug and
Alcohol’ policies• Mental health awareness training• Healthier morning tea challenge• Organised physical activities at lunch time
Questacon – The National Science and Technology CentreGovernment – 500 staff• Lake walking group• Circulated Heads Up• Promoted tip sheets on managing stress• Incentivised physical activity with time• Audited staff vending machines
The Woden SchoolEducation – 55 staff• Mental health awareness training• Healthier morning tea options• Healthy end of term staff activities• Walking group
Universities AustraliaEducation – 26 staff• ‘Have lunch away from the
desk’ challenge• Promoted health and wellbeing policies• Fruit delivery to office• Lunch time walking group
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RECOGNISED WORKPLACES
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE WORKPLACES FOR CONSISTENTLY IMPLEMENTING A HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN FOR A YEAR�
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Cancer Council ACT – On the water for a good cause 11 staffCancer Council ACT is a not-for-profit community organisation that aims to promote a healthier community by reducing the incidence and impact of cancer in the ACT region. The Council depends largely on the generosity of the ACT and surrounding community providing donations and supporting fundraising initiatives.
The team at Cancer Council ACT has found that spreading a variety of activities over four seasons of the year allows as many people to participate as possible.Cindy Gibson from the Cancer Council ACT suggests workplaces shouldn’t try to cram lots of activities into one month, nor expect all staff to get involved – but be sure to offer plenty of choices.“Encourage staff to participate, but don’t make activities compulsory,” says Cindy.
“Let staff make suggestions on activities they would like to incorporate into the
plan, and make it fun and accessible for everyone.”
Taking the activities beyond the workplaceSome of the Council’s most popular activities in 2019 were regular healthy staff lunch cookoffs and the Dragons Abreast Regatta in November, where the team, ’The Cancer Council Curesaders’, helped raise money for a great cause, had some fun and got active.
“The Dragons Abreast Regatta was a great success as all Cancer Council staff and participating stakeholders (which included staff from other local not-for-profit organisations) had never dragon boated before,” says Cindy. “It was a great way to have a fun day out with other local community organisations we support and work with.”Committed to healthAlong with active and social events, the team has also undertaken ‘Accidental Counsellor’ training and participated in Dry July. And during COVID-19, staff were encouraged to undertake daily desk/chair exercises and online training. “Our organisation is enjoying being a part of the Healthier Work program,” says Cindy. “It has encouraged behaviour change and, even more importantly, team building within our organisation.”
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Catering for work meetings or events? Include healthier food options and low kilojoule drinks—it’s a great way to promote healthy eating in the workplace.
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Icon Water – Healthier bodies, minds and places 420 staffIcon Water is an ACT-owned corporation that provides drinking water and wastewater services for Canberrans.
The management team at Icon Water is invested in the health and wellbeing of their large team. In addition to a dedicated budget and engagement with Healthier Work, Icon Water has set up a job role to drive activities.Michael Nolan, Icon Water’s Health and Work Fitness Coordinator, says having a specific health role in the organisation helps drive momentum.“Management has taken a bold approach through the creation of a dedicated position to drive health and wellbeing initiatives across the organisation and bring about cultural change.”Typically, health and wellbeing programs are implemented by champions as a voluntary part of their role, yet Michael has been able to focus all his efforts on introducing exciting activities, including a series of ‘Live Well’ events held from April to October 2019.“These were very popular with staff,” says Michael. “We had a range of activities that were delivered by experts in fields such as nutrition, heart health, physical fitness, sleep awareness and mental health.“We invited Dr Brendan Nelson (Director of the Australian War Memorial at that time) to give a
keynote talk for staff for Mental Health Week. He spoke powerfully on the importance of mental health and the need to understand that each of us responds differently in any given situation. His presentation resonated deeply with a number of our staff.”At this same event, other inspiring speakers included Carrie-Ann Leeson from Lifeline Canberra, Martin Fisk from Menslink Canberra, Ben Farinazzo from Invictus Games and Francis Crimmins from YWCA.Engaging to understand
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Michael says his role is heavily focused on proactive communication and building positive relationships with his colleagues – as a way to understand what initiatives will work practically in the workplace.“If staff have any concerns about how health initiatives might affect them or might be challenging to participate in, we address any concerns openly and hold forums to build trust,” explains Michael.After exploring staff interests, Michael introduced special ‘months’ to focus on healthier bodies (exercise, nutrition, sleep health), healthier minds and healthier places. He also ran a 10,000 steps challenge to generate friendly rivalry and started physiotherapy consultations to prevent injuries.
“Our onsite physiotherapy program has had a big impact on the health and wellbeing of
staff that work in the field.”
“In addition to significantly reducing the number of injuries within the first year of implementation, it has helped to build confidence in Icon Water as a workplace that genuinely cares about its employees. “Plus, around 100 staff chose to participate in our Choose to Move program – an 8-week fitness and healthy eating program. It was a great to see people become more connected with others from various areas of the business.” Measuring successAs with any investment, it is important to demonstrate a return – and sometimes the benefits are hard to quantify in the first year.
“A challenge is the complexity of gathering data that makes a financial case about the impact of our staff health and wellbeing programs,” explains Michael. “To address this, we are looking at different ways to measure tangible and intangible benefits. A cost-benefit analysis would be very useful but is tricky to undertake as results tend to be over the long term. “We all have to count the little wins. The seemingly insignificant things that you notice around the place – like someone bringing a healthier meal to work, or someone else encouraging a colleague to come along to a health-related event. Those little wins equal a big difference over time.”
DID YOU KNOW?Packing a lunch from home means you don’t need to buy any unnecessary, single-use plastic and you have a set portion size. Plus, it reduces food waste.
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Master Builders Association of the ACT – A strategy to manage fatigue 35 staffThe Master Builders Association (MBA) of the ACT is an industry association representing the ACT Building and Construction Industry.
Every Canberran shared the stress of dealing with bushfires, smoke, hot weather and a hailstorm early this year. Like the rest of the construction industry, MBA staff recovered from these events feeling fatigued, flat and longing for the Easter holiday break.Led by the leadership team and healthier work committee, the organisation implemented a range of measures to help staff manage their fatigue.CEO Michael Hopkins says, “An opportunity presented itself when we refurbished our offices. The implementation of sit-to-stand workstations, extra greenery and refreshed open plan office has all contributed to improved staff morale, teamwork and wellbeing.”A day of recuperationMBA’s WHS Manager Alana Morris says, “Our Healthier Work Committee put in place a new healthier work plan, centred around a ‘fatigue day’, which was gifted by the organisation to all staff.“By far this was our most appreciated and valued initiative. The aim of the day was to assist staff with managing the fatigue associated with a tough start to 2020 – including bushfires, smoke haze and intense heat.“We all enjoyed a day to recuperate and shared photos of how we each made the most of our day!“Having our CEO and Leadership Team actively participate and foster the Healthier Work program allows us to implement some interesting (and fun)
out-of-the-box activities to keep staff healthy and happy,” says Alana.“Given the Association’s role in modelling behaviours for the building and construction industry, involvement of our organisation’s leaders is critical to the success of our program.” Alana notes, “There’s great value in the Healthier Work program. There is a proven return on investment to being both physically and psychologically healthy in the workplace, including less absenteeism, greater retention, staff satisfaction and productivity. Just do it!”Keeping in touch during COVID-19 Just like most organisations, MBA ACT has felt the impacts of COVID-19, in particular around the social gathering and distancing requirements. With about 95% of staff working from home during the pandemic, the team distributed a Working from Home Guide and a tailored Mental Health and Wellbeing Program to keep staff in touch and supported. “We implemented and facilitated ergonomic assessments, daily WIP meetings via video, and set up a check-in point so we could all monitor each other’s wellbeing, workloads and health,” says Alana.The team provided information to industry members about COVID-19 including handy templates, procedures and advice. “We all worked hard to remain positive and proactive,” Alana says.
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OzHelp – Ring the good news bell! 27 staffThrough a range of practical workplace health and wellbeing programs and services, OzHelp empowers and supports people to grow life skills and resilience, to engage in self-care, and to look out for each other, and take action before there is a crisis.
As a team dedicated to workplace health and wellbeing – through training and education programs – OzHelp also applies best practice to their own health and wellbeing.“When good things happen at work, we believe it’s important to note the achievements and recognise that we all work together to achieve a successful end result,” says Adrienne Moss, OzHelp Office Manager.That’s when they ring their ‘good news bell’!“If a team member announces a new workplace partner, we ring the bell, which gets everyone’s attention,” explains Adrienne. “If a wellbeing support worker hears from someone with a good news story, this is a really good reason to ring the bell as we love hearing how we have been able to help someone through a rough patch or tough time. Equally, if we bring on a business partner or a donation is made, we also ring the bell to celebrate.”
“It makes every staff member feel valued and worthy, which in turn contributes to a
healthier workplace.”
Peer supportFor a relatively small team spread across the country, OzHelp’s health and wellbeing activities are simple and practical.“We provide camping chairs so staff can sit outside and eat lunch, fresh fruit in the tearoom, and encourage staff to eat at least two healthy lunches away from their desks per week,” says Adrienne.Lake walks and walking meetings are also a big part of every week.And beyond the morale-boosting good news bell, staff members are responsible for keeping a close eye on each other’s wellbeing.“We really encourage peer support,” says Adrienne. “We regularly check in with other team members and ask the question, RUOK?”
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Royal Australian Mint – WellMint 255 staffThe Royal Australian Mint is the sole producer of the coins that Australian’s use every day. Each of the coins produced by the Mint is a celebration of Australia’s history, unique heritage, flora and faunal.
The Royal Australian Mint has coined their health and wellbeing program, WellMint – an internal brand that is gaining recognition amongst staff for exercise classes, seminars and fun challenges including Steptember.“We run one-hour health and wellbeing seminars on topics such as sleep, healthy working week, emotional intelligence, healthy eating demonstrations and so on,” says Laura Jennings, Rehabilitation and Wellness Officer at the Mint. “We also offer free staff influenza vaccinations.”To encourage participation across WellMint initiatives, the team offers incentives such as an extra half hour lunch break for staff to exercise or attend a seminar.“We provide attendee prizes and gifts relevant to health and wellbeing, such as a satin sleep mask, herbal tea and tea infuser, or a double walled and vacuum-sealed drink bottle,” says Laura.Championing with enthusiasmWith a large and diverse workplace in terms of age and cultural background, Laura says the Mint has to offer both a variety of health and wellbeing activities, as well as be flexible in how they communicate and engage with everyone.“I use a variety of communication strategies to promote the health and wellbeing activities,” explains Laura. “I utilise staff notices via all-staff emails, WellMint notice boards and staff notice boards, as well as visiting various areas of the workplace to verbally communicate the upcoming activities.”The 2020 WellMint calendar of events was launched at an all-staff meeting in February, with tote bags provided to all staff members.
“We included WellMint branded gifts of peppermints and sticky notes, along with print-outs of the calendar of events with each WellMint seminar and activity, the exercise class information and the staff EAP services,” says Laura. “A gold, silver and bronze ribbon were placed in three bags. The three lucky Minties who found these in their bags received a mystery wellbeing gift like an affirmation card.”Regular input from Laura as the champion, along with a solid dose of energy and enthusiasm, helps staff get involved.
“It’s important for the champion to get to know the workplace and their colleagues to
understand what the needs and demands are.”
“Building rapport outside of the area or team you work in is great for everyone.”Variety for allLaura’s main learnings from their first year with Healthier Work have been to source reputable presenters and to provide incentives to encourage attendance. Plus, offer lots of variety, which they do via Mint Kindness Awards, twice-weekly exercise classes, and a ‘healthy quick meals’ seminar.“We try to remove barriers for people to attend where we can, and management has helped by providing extra time for people to get to an exercise class or seminar.”Their most successful initiative in 2019 was Steptember, with 99 participants over 25 teams.“We took nearly 27 million steps and raised just over $10,500 for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance! The Mint was recognised by Steptember as a top corporate achiever, which is a fantastic achievement for a small agency,” says Laura.
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SNAPSHOTS
Ainslie GroupHospitality – 230 staff
Ainslie Football Club• Mocktail evening• Fruit and vegetable boxes• Recognition/thank you box
Gungahlin Lakes• 10,000 steps challenge vs Ainslie Football
Club• Stress management/resilience workshop• Monthly staff healthy breakfast
Alta PeteEducation – six staff• Healthy food at morning teas and events• Recognition of extra efforts by staff• Stretches and warmups before meetings• Promoted Quit smoking support
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AMA ProjectsBuilding & Construction – 43 staff• Weekly fitness boot camps• Hosted a walking challenge• Fresh fruit and healthy snacks in
the kitchen• Daily walking meetings• Employee wellbeing survey• Encouraged the topic of mental health in
the workplace• Set up a corporate Uber to ensure staff
safely return home from events• Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge
Australian War MemorialCultural attraction – 300+ staff• Flu vaccinations• Launched Drug and Alcohol Policy• Health checks• SunSmart awareness
Canberra and Region Visitors CentreGovernment – six staff• Encouraged staff to walk around Lake
Burley Griffin• Healthy team breakfasts• Shared health recipes• Dry July• Healthy snack options
Cancer Council ACTNot-for-profit – 11 staff• March Charge Challenge
• Dragon Boating team
• Dry July
• Accidental Counsellor training
• Healthy staff lunch cook-offs
• Virtual desk/chair exercises during COVID-19
• Staff walks
Centre for Invasive Species SolutionsProfessionals – eight staff• Walking Challenge• Encouraged walking meetings and regular
walking breaks• Workplace lunch club• Thank You Box – recognition for
employee efforts
Department of FinanceGovernment – 1400 staff• Introduction to mindfulness• Desk-based stretching exercises• Art of being happy presentation• ‘Breakfast on the run’ and ‘Lifting the lid
on lunch’ seminars by Nutrition Australia• SafeTALK suicide awareness workshop
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Elections ACTGovernment – 13 staff• Healthy drink (fresh juice/smoothie)
in office• 10,000 steps program• Promoted EAP program• 10 days ‘sugar free’ challenge
Icon WaterWater Utility Services – 420 staff• Launched ‘Live Well’ Health Framework • ‘Move it May’ 10,000 Steps Challenge • Healthier Bodies Month, Healthier Minds
Month, Healthier Places Month • Online Physiotherapy Consultations
(usually onsite) • Choose to Move – 8-week health
kickstart program• Targeted workforce mental health survey
Interaction Consulting GroupConsulting – 14 staff• Dry July• Presentation on trauma• Lunchtime walking activity• Promoted staff health and
wellbeing policies
Karinya HouseNot-for-profit – 20 staff• Health and wellbeing as an agenda item • Participated in healthy fundraisers• Before and after work get-togethers• Mental health training
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Kingsford Smith SchoolEducation – 130 staff• Tip sheets on managing
day-to-day stresses• Healthy recipe exchange• Started a walking/running group• Water (hydration) challenge
Master Builders Association of the ACTBuilding & Construction – 35 staff• Managing Fatigue Day• Sit to stand workstations• Office greenery• Affirmations board• ‘Who do you work safely for?’
photo ID cards• Healthy cooking demonstrations• At desk neck and shoulder massages• Yoga
McDonald Jones Homes ACTConstruction – 20 staff• Provided staff with water bottles• Participated in fundraisers such as
MS Walkathon• Distributed Beyond Blue’s online tool for
workplace mental health• Circulated information to staff on breaking
unhealthy habits
National Museum of AustraliaNational cultural attraction – 246 staff• Yoga Wednesday • Meditation Thursdays • Online Yammer social groups for
gardening, crafts, dogs and reading• Life Blood Red 25 Plasma Donor team
– Awarded ACT’s highest increase in donations of 650% and 2nd highest frequency of donations overall
• Personal health checks• Nutrition workshops• Pawgust – walking your dog to raise
$2760 for Guide Dogs Australia
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OzHelp – Health and Wellbeing at WorkNot-for-profit – 27 staff• Eat two healthy lunches away from desks
per week • Provided camping chairs so staff can sit
outside and eat lunch• Provided staff with free water bottles to
encourage hydration• Provided fresh fruit in the tearoom • Encouraged staff to participate in walks
around the lake • Rang the good news bell to share the
good stuff!• Encouraged walking meetings• Encouraged peer support and ask the
question – RUOK?
Royal Australian MintMinting/National cultural attraction – 255 staff• One-hour health and wellbeing seminars • Twice-weekly half hour exercise classes • Steptember for Cerebral Palsy Alliance
(with prizes)• Nutrition Australia and
Cancer Council seminars• The Mint Kindness Awards – nominate a
colleague for an act of kindness• Stress Down Day • Gratitude Week • Movember and RUOK? Day• Promotion of EAP services
Scott Leggo GalleryArts – five staff• Displayed healthy eating posters• Free healthy barbecues• Employee Reward and Recognition• Encouraged drinking tap water
WorkSafe ACTACT Government – 55 staff• Weekly walking group• Physical activity challenges• Mental fitness sessions• Mental Health First Aid training• Nutrition-focused emails• Health checks
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WSP AustraliaProfessionals – 75 staff• Promoted riding and walking to
work initiatives• Presentations on mental health and
wellbeing• Employee recognition for
exceptional efforts• Yoga instructor every fortnight
DID YOU KNOW?Workplace health and wellbeing programs support staff to make
healthy lifestyle choices that offer long-term benefits for everyone,
including your business.
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For more information and support contact the Healthier Work team:Email healthierwork@act�gov�auWeb www�healthierwork�act�gov�au
HealthierWorkACT
Healthier WorkPhone 6205 1079 or 6207 4766
Cover image credit: Thank you to Barmco Mana McMurray for featuring on our cover.
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For more information and support contact the Healthier Work team:Email healthierwork@act�gov�auWeb www�healthierwork�act�gov�au
HealthierWorkACT
Healthier WorkPhone 6205 1079 or 6207 4766
Cover image credit: Thank you to Barmco Mana McMurray for featuring on our cover.