On Thursday 29 September, Worcestershire Works Well held their annual conference at Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove. Attended by over 80 people, the event focused on the important topic of Men’s Health. With 6 speakers all donating their time to share the vital work and resources to members of the scheme, focused workshops and opportunities for networking, everyone at the event had a brilliant time.
Speakers on the day included Jon Downes of Glassfull, who talked about the Heart of Connection. Mark Billau of Worcestershire County Council was joined by Kim Davies of Speller Metcalfe as they discussed Suicide Prevention in the Workplace, and how resources such as the Man MOT, produced by the Council can be used in practice. Mary Symons, Founder of the Kidderminster and Worcestershire Prostate Cancer Support Group, was joined by Phil Rudd to share important information about prostate cancer.
Following a coffee break and opportunity to network, groups were supported by a Facilitator to offer feedback on the Worcestershire Works Well scheme which will be used to shape the future of the programme. An important presentation on male victims of domestic abuse from Carolyn Ball of West Mercia Women’s Aid and Michelle Haywood of Male Domestic Abuse Worker, was given.
Sue Fitzmaurice of Southco Manufacturing joined the speakers roster to give a talk on their Men’s Mental Health Campaign.
Sue Thomas of Sue Thomas Wellbeing gave an insight into the ‘truth about sugar and how it affects your productivity in business every day’.
Sue Fitzmaurice returned to the stage to present the Southco Manufacturing Special Achievement Award to the winners – ISO Quality Services Ltd! LG Harris were awarded a Highly Commended.
The conference was also an excellent opportunity to recognise the business who had recently achieved their Level 1 Accreditation in the scheme. They were Design in the Shires, vietec Ltd and LG Harris.
A delicious lunch was served as everybody enjoyed further networking, sharing ideas and tips for achieving the WWW Accreditation!
Worcestershire Works Well is open to all public, private and third sector organisations located in Worcestershire that have a minimum of 5 employees. The scheme has been operating for over 10 years and there are more than 100 active businesses across the county. Participation in the Worcestershire Works Well scheme is free. Worcestershire Works Well is a multi-agency partnership working to improve workplace health and wellbeing in Worcestershire. A Strategic Board made up of local key partners and leaders is in place to set the vision and strategic direction of Worcestershire Works Well with reference to the evidence base.