Gong recognises well-being culture

And the imminent arrival of the new intranet will see the launch of Good News Weeks.

 Every 12 weeks the chief executive Dr Luke Rumbold will host a Good News Week based on improved health outcomes/lifestyle choices including the issues of physical exercise, healthy food consumption, reduced workplace stress and reduced risky alcohol and drug use. 

At the end of each themed week, staff will be asked to contribute their top 10 ideas.

The ideas will be edited into a UMFC Healthy Workplace Tip List and promoted both on induction of all new staff and on the agency’s website that can be assessed by the 125 staff.

Dr Rumbold says the aim of the Good News Weeks is to continue the development of the agency’s strong health and well-being culture including the enormous value of fun and laughter in the workplace.

 He and other members of the Senior Management Group are advocates of fitness, and regularly run, swim or attend the gym.

 “As an organisation committed to the welfare of others we run the risk of neglecting our own health and wellbeing needs,” he says.

“Also with a predominately female workforce (most of whom have carer/family responsibilities) the reality is that our staff are doubly committed at home and at work caring for others. 

Dr Rumbold says given that the nature of the work can be very stressful its important to provide opportunity for nurture and selfcare on their mission of “strengthening families to build vibrant communities”.

“As a consequence the agency, through health and well-being activities, is developing a heightened awareness of the critical importance of developing a culture that supports a healthy workplace and a good work life balance work,” he says.

Upper Murray Family Care started its work health journey back in 2011 with 72 per cent undertaking health checks which picked up several life threatening illnesses.

The pedometer challenge and green smoothie demonstrations are other initiatives.