7 Free Initiatives to Implement for Workplace Wellbeing Day in Ireland

To celebrate the 9th Ibec National Workplace Wellbeing Day today we’re excited to share a list of free wellness activities that can be implemented in a hybrid or virtual format. Our goal is to help raise the profile of wellbeing not only on the day itself but also throughout the calendar year with these engaging and low-cost activities.

In Ireland, workplace wellbeing is becoming increasingly important for both employees and employers. A healthy and happy workforce leads to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved overall job satisfaction. 

Here are some suggestions that could help to improve your employees’ physical and mental wellbeing.

Encourage regular breaks and physical activity

Sitting at a desk for long periods can be detrimental to an employee’s health. Encourage your staff to take regular breaks from their work to stretch, go for a walk, or engage in some other form of physical activity. Perhaps you could even arrange a group exercise session during lunchtime or after work.

Promote healthy eating habits

Provide healthy snacks or fruit bowls in the office to encourage your employees to make healthier choices. You could also run a healthy eating campaign, offering advice and tips on how to maintain a healthy diet. Consider providing healthy meal options for meetings and events.

Offer mental health support

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Consider providing employees with access to counseling services or arranging for a mental health professional to visit the office. Promote the use of employee assistance programs and encourage your staff to take advantage of them.

Encourage a positive work-life balance

Long working hours and a lack of work-life balance can lead to burnout and poor mental health. Encourage your employees to take their annual leave entitlement and support flexible working arrangements where possible. Consider offering remote working options, where appropriate.

Promote social connections

Strong social connections at work can improve employee wellbeing and job satisfaction. Encourage social interactions through team building activities, social events, or even just having a designated space for employees to chat during breaks.

Reduce stress levels

Workplace stress can have a significant impact on an employee’s wellbeing. Consider introducing stress reduction techniques such as meditation or mindfulness sessions. Provide resources such as stress management training or access to stress reduction apps.

Celebrate achievements

Recognise your employees’ achievements and contributions to the company. Celebrate milestones and successes as a team and provide opportunities for your staff to feel valued and appreciated.

Workplace Wellbeing Day;

provides an excellent opportunity for employers to prioritise employee health and wellbeing. By implementing these initiatives, you can create a healthier and happier workplace culture, leading to increased productivity, job satisfaction, and overall wellbeing.

Here are some links to free online resources that can help you further improve your workplace wellbeing initiatives.

Diabetes Type 2 Risk test 

Online Lung Health Checker

Healthy Meeting Guidelines

Healthy Workplace Framework

WHO Healthy Workplace Model

Colour Blindness Test

It’s important to remember that wellbeing is a year-round effort, and to further support this, we’ve included a link to our current wellness innovations, which are available virtually and will soon be offered in a hybrid format. You can access more information about our clinics here.

We wish you a Happy Workplace Wellbeing Day 2023 and hope that the list of wellness activities below will be beneficial in your planning efforts.