Derry Credit Union scoops PHA workplace health award

Derry Credit Union scoops PHA workplace health award

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has recognised the outstanding commitment of Derry Credit Union Limited to creating a healthy workplace.

The PHA-sponsored Healthy Workplace Award 2013 was presented to Derry Credit Union Limited at the recent Derry-Londonderry Business Awards.

The credit union beat off stiff competition from fellow finalists City of Derry Airport, Firstsource and Sainsbury’s, to win the award.

Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement for the Western area at the PHA said that the award acknowledges the health-conscious employer.

“The award is given to the company or organisation that has demonstrated commitment to people through improved engagement and creating a healthier, happier workforce, and who proactively demonstrate a holistic approach to investing in the health and wellbeing of the employee.”

Brendan also acknowledged the work of Derry Healthy Cities and the PHA-funded ‘Foyle Health @ Work’ initiative which works directly with the businesses to support them in addressing health and wellbeing improvement in the workplace.

In particular he congratulated the Project Co-Ordinator Sabrina Dunne in her role of supporting the business to engage in the process.

Derry Credit Union Limited has established a health promotion committee made up of staff, management, directors and volunteers. 

The committee has organised and delivered more than 150 workshops, activities and events around health and wellbeing. The majority of these activities are offered during the working day and staff rotas are drawn up to accommodate those who wish to participate. 

Activities to date have included stress management workshops, healthy eating sessions, taster sessions in yoga and Tai Chi. Staff have also been able to avail of bi-annual cardiac risk assessments and one-to-one consultations with a fitness instructor, and have been given information on foot and eye care, cancer awareness, mental health first aid, and smoking cessation sessions.

In addition, the credit union established a quiet room, a refuge from the hustle and bustle, where staff can listen to calming music and relax. Staff members are also encouraged to get involved in gardening and space has been made available outside the premises to grow vegetables. 

Credit Union General Manager, Joan Gallagher, expressed their delight at winning the award.

“I think this a just reward for the management board, staff and volunteers for their commitment and caring attitude to creating a working environment which genuinely cares for those who work there. This in turn contributes to a better service response to our clients.

“On behalf of the Credit Union I would like to thank Sabrina and Foyle Health @ Work for all their support in the process.”

For more information on the workplace health scheme you can contact Sabrina Dunne on 028 71611384 or sabrina@derryhc.com or visit the website http://www.foylehealthatwork.com