Daventry Care Home Completes 10 Million Step Challenge

HEALTH conscious carers have completed 10 million steps in a week as part of a wellbeing challenge.

The 130-strong staff team at Badby Park, a local care home for adults with complex needs, were set the task as part of a week-long wellbeing initiative to promote healthy habits and a positive working culture.

Members from all departments including nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and management combined their step totals to complete more than 4500 miles or 182 marathons.

According to the NHS the average person in the UK walks around 4000 steps per day, at least 3000 less than in Japan and 5500 less than people living in Australia.

Being active whilst at work is an essential part of physical wellbeing and the step challenge was part of a wider programme of events that also looked at the importance of nutrition, mental and emotional health and relaxation techniques.

Cashana Bull, Wellbeing Facilitator at Badby Park, said the week was an important initiative for staff as care givers often overlook their own health and emotional needs.

She said: “Those who work in care often put the needs of others before their own and this week is about making sure our team takes the time to look after themselves, so that they can continue to provide excellent support for our residents.

“By making simple adjustments to our working day, such as being mindful and choosing to respond to stress rather than react, or being informed about nutrition and choosing a lower sugar drink rather than our regular juice, we can make big changes to our wellbeing.

“When we educate our staff on their wellbeing this filters through to our residents and their families and we create a positive and health-aware community.”

The wellbeing week is part of a continued focus on health and wellbeing for staff at Badby Park. In October 2015 the specialist neurological centre employed a full time Wellbeing Facilitator to ensure a positive and healthy working culture exists across the service as a whole and within each department. The innovative employer also provides regular therapy days for staff and mindfulness sessions.

Paul Hill, CEO of Badby Park, said he was delighted with the step total and the dedication shown by all the staff:

“It’s fantastic the way the whole team stepped up to the challenge – 10 million is an amazing achievement!

“We are very proud to support such an important initiative as well being and I’m sure the benefits from this meaningful week will be long lasting.

Thank you to Cashana and to everyone who took part.”

Badby Park neurological centre provides rehabilitation, long term care, respite and palliative care for people with neurological illnesses, acquired brain injuries and spinal injuries.

This May the centre received a glowing report from the Care Quality Commission and was rated “Good” following an unannounced inspection.

The facility was praised by inspectors who said staff were caring, kind and compassionate towards residents.