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Category: Health and Wellbeing

  • Health & Wellbeing: investing in our colleagues

    Health & Wellbeing: investing in our colleagues

    Over the last 2 weeks, we’ve hosted two colleague activities for everyone to get involved with, our quiz night in the Elephant & Castle Pub and wreath making in the Cricktfield Brickworks.

    We want to thank everyone who attended and got involved ✨

    There will be more activities hosted by the Health & Wellbeing Group for colleagues to get involved in, please keep an eye out on the Intranet and your internal monthly newsletter.

    What’s on next?

    Eighties Bostin’ Bash – Monday 6th November 2023, 6pm onwards

    RSVP: Please RSVP by Monday 30th October!

     

  • World Menopause Day: Embrace the Change

    World Menopause Day: Embrace the Change

    In celebration of World Menopause Day (18 October), we are launching our new Menopause Working Group!

    As part of our ongoing commitment to colleague wellbeing, we are pleased to announce a new working group, focused on providing training and support, for menopause.

    Menopause is a significant life stage that affects a large percentage of our colleagues. It is the point in time that marks the end of a person’s menstrual cycles. While it is a natural process, it can sometimes bring challenges that impact both personal and professional aspects of an individual’s life. By fostering a better understanding of menopause and its effects, we aim to create a more supportive and inclusive workplace environment.

    The role of the Menopause Working Group:

    At the Menopause Working Group, our mission is to create a workplace environment where every colleague feels informed, valued, and supported as they navigate the various stages of menopause. We aim to provide extensive information and foster an open dialogue around menopause, ensuring that no colleague feels isolated during this significant period in their life.

    What progress have we made so far?  

    • A brand-new menopause policy
    • Collated a list of resources that can extend your knowledge and understanding of menopause
    • Have now provided complimentary sanitary products in colleague toilets
    • In progress: a route for visitors to receive complimentary sanitary products for emergencies while on site – look out for our “Ask Bab” notices coming soon in both the Worker’s Institute and Visitor Centre toilets
    • Arranged for all colleagues to receive in-person menopause training in the January Shutdown
    • Arranged for Line Managers to receive training (both in-person and online) to further understand menopause and how to spot the signs, offering support to those that may require this to take place in late November. A Manager Menopause Guidebook is also in progress and will be ready to share at the training
    • Nominated two interim menopause champions: Rory Shannon (Enterprise Manager) and Jo Turner (Executive Assistant).

    In the pipeline:

    • In early next year, we plan to host voluntary drop-in sessions on menopause and other related matters, e.g. endometriosis, early menopause, menopause and race, menopause and transgender, living with someone going through the menopause and general menopause discussion groups
    • We are building on resources, including podcasts, support groups and useful apps, to support a range of menopause matters
    • Identify additional menopause champions

    What are our commitments to you?  

    • Confidential support will be available, including Perkbox’s Museum Employee Assistance Scheme (EAP), Mental Health First Aiders, and of course our new team representatives. Ensuring employees have a safe space to ask questions and seek guidance
    • Create awareness through visuals to break down taboos and promote open conversations (available in rest areas)
    • Educational training, including workshops and seminars, will become available soon to provide accurate information about menopause and its effects

    What we need from you:

    • Would you like to be a menopause champion? Get in touch at [email protected]
    • Let us know of any good practice you have come across, as it could be transferred to our Menopause Working Group. Get in touch at [email protected]
    • Please thoroughly read the menopause policy once it has been launched

    The Menopause Working Group

    • Sukhi Baden – Head of People and Culture
    • Jo Turner – Executive Assistant
    • Kate Kirkpatrick – Corporate Sales and Development Manager
    • Annie-Rose Pitman – Digital and Marketing Administrator
    • Izzy Taylor – Public Programming Manager
    • Rory Shannon – Enterprise Manager
    • Bryce Beasley – Historic Character

    [embeddoc url=”http://intranet.bclm.com/wp-content/uploads/BCLM-Menopause-Policy.pdf” download=”all” viewer=”google”]

    [embeddoc url=”http://intranet.bclm.com/wp-content/uploads/Menopause-Working-Group-Resources.pdf” download=”all” viewer=”google”]

  • Attention all Colleagues – we have some thrilling new activities for you!

    Attention all Colleagues – we have some thrilling new activities for you!

    After reviewing the feedback from the Health & Wellbeing survey, we are excited to announce two new activities for you to get involved in!

    Get ready to get active, social, and get your game on!

    1. Quiz Night!
    Let’s make this an evening to remember!

    Are you ready for a night of fun, laughter, and friendly competition? The Health & Wellbeing Group is thrilled to invite you to our exciting Quiz Night event at the Elephant & Castle Pub on Thursday 12th October 2023, arrival at 5:30 PM, for a 6pm start.

    Prize: The winning team will each receive a family ticket to Hoo Zoo, Dinosaur World – a fantastic opportunity for a fun day trip.

    Refreshments: The bar will be open for you to purchase your favourite drinks and snacks throughout the event as well as a few free nibbles.

    Relax, enjoy a beverage, and unwind with your fellow participants.

    How to Participate: Please assemble a team of four members and give yourselves a creative team name!

    To secure your spot, please email [email protected] by Friday 6th October. Please make sure to provide the names of all team members and your team’s name.

    (Please note, the quiz is free to enter but is capped at 13 teams due to space).

    2. Embrace Autumn – Wreath Making!

    As the vibrant colours of autumn begin, it’s the perfect time to get creative and embrace the season’s beauty.

    Come and celebrate the season by crafting your very own beautiful wreath. Immerse yourself in the artistic process while enjoying the company of colleagues and friends, join the Health & Wellbeing Group at 4.30pm – 6.30pm on Tuesday 17th October in The Brickworks, where we’ll craft small autumnal wreaths together.

    Cost: The workshop is priced at £7 per person, which covers all the necessary materials.

    To secure your spot at the workshop, please email [email protected] by Friday 6th October. Spaces are limited, so sign up early to avoid missing out.

    Foraging Adventure: For those who sign up early, we’re offering a unique opportunity to forage for some of the materials in the picturesque surroundings of Mary Stevens Park at 10.30am on Saturday 14th October 2023. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and gather special elements for your wreath. If you choose to join us for the foraging activity, please bring comfortable outdoor attire and a sense of adventure. This activity is optional, and all materials for wreath making will still be provided.

    We can’t wait to see your artistic talents shine.

    If you have any questions regarding these two activities, please email [email protected]

    Thank you.

     

  • Health & Wellbeing Survey – the results are in!

    The Health & Wellbeing Survey results are in!

    To gain valuable insights into the needs and preferences of our dedicated employees at the Black Country Living Museum, we recently conducted a survey – to view all results, please follow this Link.

    In this article, we will outline our plans to enhance health & wellbeing for all, here at the museum.

    Based on the survey results, we are committed to taking the following actions to support your health and wellbeing at BCLM:

    1. Colleague Wellbeing Initiatives:

    Exercise Initiatives: We will explore options for exercise initiatives such as walking groups and cycling activities.

    Social Engagement: Our team will work on planning social events and activities to promote colleague engagement. Our first event will take place in October – Watch this space!

    Healthy Eating: We will consider offering cooking and healthy eating classes to support your dietary preferences.

    Work Environment: Improvements to work environments, including rest areas and equipment.

    1. Diverse Activities:

    Excursions and Events: We will organise excursions and events, including quiz nights, movie nights, and other activities based on your interests.

    Skills Sharing: Colleagues interested in skills sharing will have the opportunity to contribute to our planned activities.

    1. Activity Timing:

    Flexible Timing: We will schedule activities to accommodate different preferences, including after work and evening options.

    1. Communication and Feedback:

    Intranet Updates: We will ensure that the intranet is regularly updated with information about upcoming activities and events.

    Open Dialogue: Your feedback and suggestions will continue to be welcomed and valued.

    1. Inclusivity:

    Supporting All Colleague Types: We recognise and appreciate the contributions of all colleague types at BCLM, including salaried, hourly paid, and volunteers.

    Your input has been instrumental in shaping our plans, thank you for being an essential part of Black Country Living Museum, we are excited to embark on this journey to prioritise health & wellbeing.

    Many thanks,

    The Health and Wellbeing Group

  • Health & Wellbeing Group Presents – Mr Motivator Prize Draw (competition now closed)

    Thank you to everyone who entered our competition below, we have now secured our winners! 

     

    The Health & Wellbeing group have secured x3 pairs of tickets for Mr Motivator at Halesowen Town Hall  on Sunday 24 September 2023 at 10am-2pm.

    Mr Motivator and his Motivators bring to you ‘The Motivational Experience’, a day jam-packed full of activities aimed to improve your sense of wellbeing and make you smile.

    You will enjoy a variety of classes taught by Mr Motivator suitable for any age group, level of fitness and from a chair or standing, it’s up to you!

    Not only will The Motivational Experience help you to move more, but also includes motivational and stress talks, advice, and so much more including a fun session with the Motivators to give you that real party vibe. Don’t miss it!

    Come dressed prepared and ready to sweat, laugh and get motivated by the main man himself, MR MOTIVATOR!

    If you would be like to be entered into the prize draw, please email [email protected] by 4pm on Friday 7th September 2023.

  • Health & Wellbeing Group – Meet the team

    Further to our earlier article where we invited all colleagues to join our new Health & Wellbeing Group, we are delighted to introduce you to our group members:

    • Carla Jasper, Visitor Welcome Supervisor
    • Izzy Taylor, Public Programme Producer
    • Diane Harvey, Head of Finance
    • Annie Pitman, Digital and Marketing Administrator
    • Susannah Green, People & Culture Advisor
    • Sheila Chamberlain Hyatt, Living History Programmer
    • Stephen Watson, Historic Character
    • Sam Davies, Accountant
    • Demi Whitehouse, Enterprise Team Manager

    What will the ‘Health & Wellbeing Group’ do?

    BCLM’s new Health & Wellbeing Group’s mission is to foster a nurturing and inclusive space within the Museum that promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being for all colleagues. We aim to cultivate a sense of community and inspire positive lifestyle choices by offering a diverse range of engaging activities, educational programs, and resources that empower colleagues to support their general health and happiness.

    As part of this we would like to understand what our colleagues would like from the group, as such could you please complete this short survey by Monday 14 August, 2023. We will share the results Museum-wide in the coming weeks.

    The survey should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. All answers are anonymous unless you wish to leave your details for feedback at the end of the survey.

    If you have any questions or would like to contact the team, please email [email protected]

  • ‘Keeping well at BCLM’ – Heath & Wellbeing Group

    ‘Keeping well at BCLM’ – Heath & Wellbeing Group

    ‘Keeping well at BCLM’ focuses on three key themes: Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, and Healthy Work.

     

    What will the ‘BCLM Health & Wellbeing Group’ do?

    The Health & Wellbeing Group (HWG) will focus on sharing ideas and opportunities to support ‘Keeping well at BCLM’. Members of the group will use their experiences, skills and knowledge to discuss various topics and create a diverse range of opportunities for all employees. Members will also plan events and put processes in place to support the well-being of all Museum colleagues.

    ‘Health & Wellbeing’ is key; members should be keen to make a contribution and be passionate about ensuring the project succeeds. We need a team who can be mutually supportive, essentially, WE NEED YOU!

     

    The initial meeting will be on Wednesday 14 June 2023.

    We will try and make sure meetings are non-disruptive to your working day, therefore if they do fall outside of your usual work hours. you will be paid for your time.  

    If you would be interested in joining, please email [email protected] by 11 June 2023

     

  • Mental Health Awareness Week

    Mental Health Awareness Week

    Meet Kate, our Corporate Sales and Development Manager.

    Kate Kirkpatrick is one of our Mental Health First Aiders at the Museum and spent some time discussing the importance of #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. Here at the Museum, we pride ourselves on creating a safe and supported working environment for everyone.

    Why is being a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) important to you?

    “Mental health is something that has touched my own family, and many people close to me. I believe having MHFAs available who are trained to deal with issues in the workplace is so important. It helps to provide an open and supportive culture around mental health encouraging more people to open up and get the help they need.”

    How do you feel supported at the Museum?

    “There are a number of MHFAs who have been trained for colleagues to speak to and there is a good support mechanism in place to ensure all employees feel able to share when they feel they are struggling. I also feel supported by my line manager and wider team, and we have an Employee Assistance Programme too.”

    What advice do you have to someone who may be struggling?

    “Speak to someone you trust and where possible, reach out to an MHFA, who will offer initial support and refer you to the most appropriate care needed.”

    If you need to speak to someone, we have various MHFAs. More information can be found on flyers in staff areas.

    We also have a quiet room above Doos if you need a safe space for reflection or a break.

  • Action for Happiness: Friendly February

    Action For Happiness is a movement of people committed to building a happier and more caring society.

    Each month they release a “Monthly Action Calendar”, which is packed with actions you can take to help create a happier and kinder world.

    This month’s theme is Friendly February. Be friendly to others and give your relationships a boost.

    Use their calendar below, or the Action for Happiness App, to do more good this month.

    Find out more about Action for Happiness and view their previous monthly action calendars.

  • Stallholders at the All Staff Briefings

    At the recent All Staff Briefings, there were stalls run by the following organisations. If you missed the opportunity to speak to them, please email People & Culture to be put in touch: [email protected]

    • Health Watch Dudley
    • National Express
    • Cycle to Work/Learn to Ride
    • Discover Dudley employee discount card 2023
    • Solutions 4 Health
    • Dudley Home Library
    • Dudley Empowerment Partner
    • Community Information Directory
    • Learn to Swim
    • Shared Lives