Care staff given spring in their step with group health initiative

As part of a national campaign to support their staff, Springhill Care Group is handing out pedometers to every one of its 400-plus employees.

The care group, based in Accrington, is providing their workforce with pedometers to encourage them to take an interest in their fitness levels and understand how much exercise they are getting.

The scheme has been introduced as part of the group’s Caring Heroes initiative, designed to recognise those working in the social care sector and the valuable work they do.

The company also operates a range of activities aimed at improving employee health, including healthy menu cards for staff, detailing easy and affordable recipes, and the provision of fresh fruit to encourage healthy eating.

A registered nurse also visits the group’s properties to offer staff assistance and advice on a range of topics, including stress and anxiety, blood pressure and weight.

Virginia Perkins, Head of Human Resources for the group, said: “This is another commitment to the wellbeing of our staff, our most important resource.

“Many of our care staff walk significant distances every day as they go about their duties. We know it can be a physically demanding job and we are keen to learn more about the sorts of distances our staff are walking.

“It’s a great way to also allow staff to set personal goals and track their progress as time goes on. The NHS for instance, launched a 10,000 step challenge which our staff can take part in if they wish.” 

The Caring Heroes campaign has already received backing from MPs and Care England, with Springhill highlighting the work of its staff online and via social media.