The link between sport and personal wellbeing is becoming ever more apparent – and if there’s one person who truly recognises that connection, it’s Paycare’s Sally Bromley.
Sally is the Health Cash Plan provider’s Partnerships Engagement Officer and is passionate about helping to raise awareness of the impact of sport on health and happiness.
We caught up with her to find out a little more…
Q: Firstly, what’s your background and what does your role at Paycare involve?
A: Before joining Paycare, I worked in management – both in the graphic print and property lettings sectors. I’ve always been a self-confessed sportaholic, starting my own netball club 12 years ago and spending much of my free time coaching and encouraging participation in sports.
That’s what attracted me to the role at Paycare, because of the wonderful work they do with so many sports clubs locally, nationally, and internationally.
As Partnerships Engagement Officer, I’m responsible for sourcing potential new groups, clubs and partners to work alongside, as well as building and developing existing partnerships.
Q: Most of us know taking part in sport or exercise is beneficial, but could you share with us some of the key ways in which it can help your wellbeing?
A: There are so many benefits to sports participation and regular exercise, in addition to the physical health improvements you’ll see. Sport can reduce stress, anxiety and depression; increase self-esteem and confidence; improve sleep; and increase energy levels.
It really is a case of ‘the earlier, the better’ as we see children who start playing sports early on in life learning emotional control, communication skills, how to cope with failure, and lots of essential social skills which can all boost their wellbeing.
Q: How do you find being active personally supports your wellbeing?
When I was younger, being active was important simply because I enjoyed it, but as I’ve got older, I’ve realised the impact on my physical and mental wellbeing. As a working mum, playing sport became my release from the stress of a busy schedule – it was a form of escapism and often gave me the motivation to get through the week.
Now my children are older and no longer live at home, it’s even more important for me to stay active as it provides important social connections, helps combat many issues associated with ageing, and helps keep my mind clear and focused.
Q: All exercise is beneficial, but are there any extra benefits to taking part in team sports rather than individual ones?
A: A sense of belonging and being part of a community are both integral aspects of team sport – and we really saw the importance of that during the Coronavirus lockdowns. Collaborating and working together towards a common goal are also key, and doing so can really boost your self-confidence. Individuals are also less likely to give up exercising if it’s part of a team commitment, meaning they reap the benefits of long-term physical activity.
Paycare has almost 150 years of experience boosting the UK’s health and happiness, providing a range of solutions to ease the cost of everyday healthcare. This includes the low-cost high-value Bundle, which enables employers to support the physical, emotional and financial health of their teams – for just £2 per employee per month.
Bundle comprises three valuable aspects: a 24/7 GP appointment service, access to a telephone line for confidential chats and counselling, and Paycare Perks – discounts on everything from utilities and household items to fashion and holidays.
Visit www.paycare.org/wellbeing-bundle to find out more