About WHWH

Numerous research studies over the past few decades have shown that the

workplace has a powerful effect on the health of workers*. How people

feel about themselves and their environment affects their job satisfaction,

their productivity and visa versa. Healthy workplaces benefit organisations

and individuals alike and result in:

Improved productivityFewer insurance and worker compensation claimsLess absenteeismDecreased accidentsReduced staff turnoverLower costs related to recruitment, training and orientationImproved staff attitudes towards the organisation and higher staffmoraleA more receptive climate for, and the ability to cope with, workplacechangesEnhanced business reputation and customer loyalty

Traditional attempts to create healthy workplaces have focussed on the

safety of the physical environment and injury prevention for workers. More

recently, programmes have been designed to encourage healthier individual

behaviours by providing support, information and skill training**.

The Work Health and Wellbeing Hallmark recognises the contribution of

the business world to making life a positive and rewarding experience for

employees.

It provides a framework for a pragmatic approach to the health and wellbeing

of staff.

* Bachman, K (2000). More than just hard hats and safety boots. Creating healthier work

environments. The Conference Board of Canada.

** The Health Communication Unit. An introduction to comprehensive workplace health

promotion (July 9, 2004)

How does the initiative work?

The initiative works by promoting and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices to employees through the workplace. This can take the form of information posters/leaflets, awareness days/events, training opportunities, policy, seminars, discounts at local gyms, an employee assistance programme, etc, etc. How you achieve the standard to receive the award is purposely flexible in order to allow a creative approach that best suits the working environment and the workforce.

Your health promotion strategy and action plan will form the foundation of both your work at promoting healthier lifestyle options and your evidence portfolio. The strategy should be reviewed after two years and your action plan annually.

The evidence of activity you gather is submitted to us for validation of a genuine positive commitment to the health and wellbeing of your workforce. Upon validation, we will present you with the WHWH award and you will be able to use the Work Health & Wellbeing Hallmark logo.

Our commitment to you during this process will be through support, advice and guidance. We will also continue to work to promote the initiative throughout the wider community adding value to the WHWH branding.