The Challenge

When an idea was discussed to fund a time-limited, one-off sporting event, this NHS Trust decided to think big in helping to build teamwork and motivation among its staff.

The Solution

“We talked to O2 who helped us choose the right devices. Then we emailed our nearly 2,000 lottery members inviting them to take up the offer of a free device. In just two days nearly 300 people had expressed an interest so, with such an overwhelming response, we went back to the committee and gained further funding. Now we have a very long waiting list and we plan to apply for more funding in the future.” Lisa Webster, Communications and Marketing Officer.

The idea has taken on a life of its own. The Trust has set up ‘Team NLaG’. They have a Facebook group where they share activities and compare results. There are lunchtime walks, cycle events, people meeting after work for bike rides, and they are looking at launching a couch-to-5k programme.

“Everyone who has received a device has become more active. It certainly helps tick our ‘health and wellbeing’ boxes.”

Results

“It’s a very simple idea that gained momentum and received an overwhelmingly positive response from staff. They felt motivated and engaged. What’s really pleasing is that it includes everyone across the board. There is a real mix - people who are already active, people who aren’t but want to be, people who just needed a little motivation. I would definitely recommend this to organisations like ours. It gives people a real feel good factor – they feel motivated and valued. It’s good for teambuilding, such as getting colleagues to challenge each other.”, Sarah Mainprize, Head of Communications & Marketing, Northern Lincolnshire & Goole Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust