Doncaster NHS staff celebrate top award

The Trust has been awarded the Bronze Sport and Physical Activity Award for its commitment to providing healthy work place activities for staff.

The Trust has been recognised for the introduction of a variety of on-site exercise classes at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Montagu Hospital and Bassetlaw Hospital.

Physical activities include circuit training, badminton, zumba, legs, bums and tums, Pilates and yoga.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Trust was Helen Houghton, Health and Wellbeing lead and Mike Pinkerton, chief executive.

Mike said: “The Trust is committed to giving team members the opportunity to stay fit, active and healthy while at work and we’re delighted to have been recognised in this way.

“Receiving this award strengthens our continued commitment towards providing a healthier and happier workplace for all our staff. I want to thank our superb Occupational Health and Wellbeing team as well as everyone who has participated in sports and physical activities at the Trust and encourage all members of Team DBH to get involved.”

Getting staff moving and increasing their levels of physical activity is one feature of a healthy workplace. Keeping them flu-free is another important aspect of creating a healthy culture. DBH was recognised by NHS England Medical Director Sir Bruce Keogh as the first Trust in the country this year to vaccinate 75 per cent of its frontline healthcare workers – a vital action in protecting both staff and patients.

Three levels of the Sports and Physical Activity award, Bronze, Silver and Gold, build on the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games with the aim of encouraging NHS organisations to inspire and support their staff to get more active. Evidence supports that increasing physical activity and having a healthy lifestyle brings many benefits such as increased self-esteem and lower stress.