Bristol BID Initiatives Promote Workplace Wellbeing During April

In April, the Bristol City Centre BID and Redcliffe & Temple BID collaborated to host ’20 Days of Calm,’ a program aimed at promoting workplace wellbeing during Stress Awareness Month. The campaign featured over 20 events focused on relaxation and personal enrichment, including line dancing, squash, sushi making, and dried flower arranging. These activities encouraged participants to take breaks from their workday, connect with colleagues, and engage with local businesses.

The initiative received remarkable participation, with more than 550 registrations throughout the month. Feedback from a recent survey indicated that these events were effective in reducing stress, facilitating lunch breaks, and motivating employees to return to the office. Key findings from the attendee survey showed that:

– 86% reported a decrease in stress levels. – 99% expressed interest in attending similar events in the future. – 72% viewed the events as a reason to come into the office. – Among those who attended lunchtime events, 32% stated they would not have taken a break without the event. – 39% participated alongside friends or coworkers. – 47% signed up for multiple events.

Monika Sandhu from Workman LLP noted, ‘Staff feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and participation reached new heights at our workplace. The variety of activities allowed everyone to find something enjoyable, leading to a rejuvenated team after each event.’

Holly Francis from the Environment Agency also praised the initiative, stating, ‘It allowed me to try new activities and feel a sense of accomplishment during my lunch break, which energized me for the rest of the day.’

The 20 Days of Calm program was made possible through partnerships with 14 local businesses and numerous instructors. Participating businesses included Bocabar, Double Puc, and Workout Harbourside, among others. Double Puc Cafe commented, ‘We were thrilled to contribute to an event that promoted mental wellbeing in such an engaging way, and we hope to be involved in future initiatives.’

Cass Art shared their excitement as well, stating, ‘Participating in this series allowed us to connect with the community and promote creativity as a form of mindfulness.’

The initiative also included collaborations with local gyms like Workout Harbourside and Nuffield Health, which offered exclusive deals to enhance physical wellbeing among employees.

20 Days of Calm demonstrated that even brief moments of relaxation can significantly impact individual wellbeing and foster a balanced work-life approach. Sabrina Shutter, the Events Project Manager, reflected, ‘What started as a simple idea expanded into a series of uplifting events that brought joy and connection to many. The overwhelmingly positive feedback shows Bristol values community and wellbeing.’

To maintain momentum in supporting employee wellbeing, the BIDs launched a regular lunchtime event series in 2022, providing ongoing opportunities for the local business community. To find out more about future events, interested individuals can subscribe to the newsletter.