Healthy Working Lives

Scottish insurance firm Kwik-Fit Insurance is ensuring that Scotlandís reputation as the poor man of Europe for health will become a thing of the past.

The insurance intermediary, which employs more than 950 staff, has launched a month-long campaign to boost awareness of the importance of a healthy liftstyle.

As one of the countryís leading employers, Kwik-Fit Insurance has taken that extra step and is promoting itís multitude of services and activities to encourage its people to live more healthily.

The company launched a ëHealthy Living Clubí back in July which includes membership to the on-site gym, a range of beauty and massage treatments, and access to a whole host of exercise classes, including the newly introduced Kick Boxing classes for both men and women.

Occupational Health Therapist Dorothy Sneddon is leading the charge in whipping the company into shape. She has introduced annual health MOTís with staff looking at all aspects of lifestyle and recommending ways to increase good health and better wellbeing, Dorothy can also provide eye tests to staff as well as help and advise on a host of health related issues.

She said: ìThe uptake of Health MOTís since they were launched has been fantastic ñ sometimes all people need is a little extra encouragement to stop and take stock of their health.î

ìI occasionally refer candidates to the personal trainer at the gym for an all round fitness test, and of course our onsite restaurant now offers staff as much free fruit as they would like, to highlight our commitment to healthy eating. ì

ìOur Healthy Living Club also boosts fitness and morale with yoga, waxing, facials, manicures, pedicures, aromatherapy, massages and even Reiki. This is very popular and not only helps health but allows staff to meet in a social setting.î

ìI believe Kwik-Fit Insurance is at the forefront when it comes to the health and wellbeing of its staff and with more incentives continuing to be introduced, I expect to move even further into this field in the future.î

Managing Director of Kwik-Fit Insurance Martin Oliver said: ìNinety per cent of the call centreís staff is under 35 so health and appearance is still paramount in their minds. The response from our most recent health drive is very encouraging and many have adopted some of Dorothyís tips to help them achieve better health and well-being.î

ìOur message is to make health a priority and consider exercise and healthy eating as a way of life.î

ìKwik-Fit Insurance invests heavily on the welfare of its people and has a well equipped gym as well as specially fully trained staff to coach and encourage - be it through a set fitness programme on the machines or though a class.î
ìHealthy, happy staff are essential to the success of a business like this ñ as long as our people have a happy and healthy work/life balance our customers will, as a result, also be happy.î

The commitment from the Occupational Health Therapist continues as a campaign to raise awareness of one aspect of health and fitness is highlighted each month.