Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham took part in ‘Workout at Work Day’ in support of calls on employers and Governments across the UK to recognise the value of occupational physiotherapy in the fight against work-relevant ill-health after it was revealed that North East office workers are putting their mental and physical health at risk by working more than two hours extra each night on their commute and at home.
The event, organised by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), was one of a large number of events run by physiotherapists in workplaces across the UK to promote the message that staying fit and active not only helps improve productivity in the workplace, but can also have a positive effect on people’s health and wellbeing.
The majority of working days lost to ill-health in the UK are caused by musculoskeletal conditions, such as back and neck pain, or stress, depression and anxiety. These cost society £8.5 billion a year. Employers can reduce sickness absence by encouraging better working habits, including keeping their staff active and allowing them regular and breaks, and by providing early access to physiotherapy.
Alex said:
“Workout at Work Day is a fun initiative, led by physios, and it was great to get advice on posture- just correcting the way you stand and sit can have a big impact on remaining healthy.”
“Keeping active is a vital part of staying happy, healthy and in work, and I was shocked to hear so many people in the North East are continuing to work on their smartphones and other devices long after they have left the office, which is having such a detrimental effect on their health.”
“I would encourage everyone in Stockton to take part in some form of physical activity which can provide relief from tension and stress- just taking the stairs instead of using a lift can improve your health.”