Lunchtime Pilates sessions, occasional Wellbeing Walks, and guest speakers on topics from mindfulness to career development are just a few of the activities organised by Wellbeing Advocates Kathleen Pickett and Richard Turner as part of the University Wellbeing Strategy.
Wellbeing is 'a state of contentment that allows an employee to flourish and achieve their full potential', as it says on the University Wellbeing website (which was launched last October).
"We are trying to look at activities that cover all areas of wellbeing, such as health, work, values and social and personal growth," says Kathleen.
The most recent event, Master Time & Focus, was held on 21 June from 12-1pm in the Pfizer Lecture Theatre. The well-attended seminar demonstrated eight easy ways to improve focus at work by reducing distraction, prioritising more effectively, and introducing high quality mini breaks (such as taking four breaths and a sip of water) to relieve stress.
Participants could also sign up for follow-up 'nudge' emails, reminding them to take a mini break and to do one simple task each day for five days to help their concentration.
Kathleen's and Richard’s role as Wellbeing Advocates is to provide guidance and a signposting service to staff about wellbeing issues, including mental and/or physical health and dignity at work concerns. They also organise department activities and promote university-wide wellbeing initiatives.
Both our Wellbeing Advocates have taken Mental Health Lite Training and liaise regularly with the University Wellbeing team. You are welcome to visit or email them if you have any wellbeing issues, or ideas for activities you’d like to see in the department. Kathleen’s email is kjp45@cam.ac.uk, and Richard’s is rmt35@cam.ac.uk. All contact is confidential.
Pilates (a form of core exercise) sessions continue on Tuesdays from 12:30-1:15pm, and cost £5 per session. If you are interested in joining the class or taking a trial session, please contact Kathleen.
The University and WellCAM has a wealth of activities on offer, from the recent Festival of Wellbeing, to lunchtime events on reducing stress, improving sleep, and presentation skills.
You can find out more about the Wellbeing programmes on offer by visiting the Department human resources pages or the University Wellbeing pages. This information is also posted on the Wellbeing Noticeboard, located on the 1st floor bridge between the main building and the CMI.