Summer has arrived—the days are longer, the sun is shining, and it’s the perfect opportunity to support your employees in embracing healthier habits. Encouraging changes in diet, exercise routines, and access to healthcare not only enhances wellbeing but also boosts workplace productivity and reduces sick days. 

Here’s how simple steps, combined with convenient access to GP appointments, can improve your employees’ health, happiness, and output: 

Promote physical activity 

Did you know that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 5 men in England are classified as inactive?  Many employees spend long hours at their desks, but you can help change this. 

• Encourage active commutes: Promote walk-to-work or cycle schemes, giving employees an energetic start to their day. 
• Introduce movement breaks: Suggest employees visit colleagues to ask questions instead of sending emails. Simple adjustments like moving the printer to the furthest corner of the office can also promote activity. 
• Lunchtime fitness clubs: Start staff-led activities like walking, yoga, or running groups. Building these habits during the summer can increase the likelihood of them continuing into the colder months. 

Make GP appointments accessible 

Timely healthcare is crucial for maintaining productivity and ensuring minor issues don’t become major problems. Offering easy access to digital GP appointments can make a huge difference: 

• 24/7 access: Employees can book an appointment any time, reducing time spent waiting for traditional GP slots. 
• Convenience: Virtual consultations mean employees can speak to a GP from home, the office, or even on the go. 
• Prescriptions delivered: Help your team avoid unnecessary trips to the pharmacy with prescriptions sent directly to their door or their local pharmacy. 

By ensuring quick, accessible healthcare, you can reduce employee absences and foster a healthier workforce. 

Stock up on healthy snacks 

Hunger can lead to low productivity—but often, it's boredom or habit that triggers cravings. Providing healthy snack options can curb the afternoon slump while keeping energy levels high. 

Offer nutritious, low-calorie, high-fibre options such as: 

• Popcorn 

• Rice cakes 

• Dried or fresh fruit and vegetables 

Healthy snacks will help your workforce stay energised and productive throughout the day. 

Encourage hydration 

When employees feel sluggish, their first instinct might be to grab a caffeinated drink. While coffee and tea are fine in moderation, excessive caffeine can lead to insomnia, restlessness, and an increased heart rate. 

Promote water as the go-to drink: 

• Provide reusable water bottles to help employees track their intake. 

• Set up water stations to make hydration easy and accessible. 

Staying hydrated keeps employees focused, alert, and healthier overall. 

Organise social activities 

Strong social connections at work can improve mental health and reduce stress. Whether it’s virtual coffee mornings for remote workers or Friday night drinks for in-office staff, fostering team camaraderie pays off. 

Consider planning team-building activities like: 

• Lunchtime fitness sessions. 
• Friendly competitions such as step challenges. 
• Larger team events, such as charity runs or team sports. 

Healthy relationships at work lead to a collaborative and motivated workforce. 

Healthy habits that stick  

By promoting healthier choices, you can help employees develop sustainable habits that support both their personal wellbeing and your organisation's success. 

Top Tips to Remember 

• Break up the day: Encourage employees to step away from their desks regularly. 
• Move more: Walking, running, cycling, or even delivering messages in person all count. 
• Provide healthy snacks: Swap sugary options for nutritious alternatives. 
• Prioritise hydration: Advocate for water as the drink of choice, aiming for 2 litres daily. 
• Socialise and connect: Create opportunities for teamwork and interaction. 
• Make healthcare accessible: Promote digital GP appointments for timely and convenient care. 

Doctor Care Anywhere: Here to Help 

If an employee could benefit from extra support, our clinicians are available 24/7 to provide guidance, advice, and tailored healthcare. With access to digital GP appointments, prescriptions, and wellbeing tools, we’re here to help your workforce embrace healthier, more productive lifestyles this summer.