Paths for All has launched a new award to celebrate employers who encourage everyday walking in the workplace.
The Walk at Work Award is a new accreditation which will recognise employers who are promoting walking and physical activity and offer guidance to those who want their workforce to become more active. Active meetings, lunchtime walks, standing desks and promoting ways to get to work on foot will all count towards the award.
With the average working-age adults sitting for 9.5 hours a day, the Walk at Work award aims to reverse the trend of inactive workplaces and celebrate employers who are getting their staff moving. By signing up for the award, employers will receive one-to-one support on how to create a walking culture at work as well as examples of best practice and where to find extra help and resources.
Recent findings from UK workplaces reveal that half of all employees experience poor mental health at work, including stress, anxiety and depression. Regular walking can reduce the effects of poor mental health, particularly walking in greenspace. Physical activity can also combat against the risk of type 2 diabetes, some cancers and stroke.