GH@W Success Story

From Steering Group contributor to Silver Award achiever, leading workplace wellbeing by example

Active Suffolk, a non-profit organisation operating within East Suffolk Council, has always placed physical activity and community wellbeing at the core of its mission. As one of the early Steering Group members helping to shape the Good Health @Work (GH@W) programme alongside Suffolk County Council, the organisation demonstrated its dedication to wellbeing by enrolling in the programme itself, showcasing a genuine commitment to walk the talk.

Their journey proves that even organisations with a strong internal culture can benefit from reflection, growth, and alignment with recognised wellbeing standards.

Strengthening an already positive culture

Though Active Suffolk already had a firm foundation in employee wellbeing, the team recognised the value of formalising their efforts. By joining the GH@W programme, they took a structured approach to reviewing and enhancing practices across key areas, including mental health, workplace culture, inclusion, and sustainability.

Wellbeing in action: A structured path to Silver

Guided by GH@W Advisor Laura Graham-Clarke, Active Suffolk worked through the programme’s clear and practical framework, completing the requirements for both Bronze and Silver Awards.

Together, they focused on:

✔ Strengthening and formalising internal wellbeing policies
✔ Identifying opportunities for further development
✔ Meeting all criteria for Bronze and Silver Award recognition
✔ Building momentum toward future Gold Award status

This structured support enabled the team to embed wellbeing deeper into the fabric of their organisation, making it part of their day-to-day operations, not just a guiding value.

Championing wellbeing beyond the organisation

By taking part in the GH@W programme, Active Suffolk has solidified its role not only as a wellbeing advocate in the community, but also as a workplace wellbeing leader among Suffolk’s SMEs. Their success demonstrates that continuous improvement and leadership by example go hand in hand.

Their achievements stand as a reminder that investing in staff wellbeing is not just beneficial for internal culture, it’s a powerful way to influence and inspire others.

“Active Suffolk considers itself to be more than just a team. We really care about each other. Many of us are good friends outside of work, and we know we’re really lucky for it to be this way.

We also know that just because many of us are friends, this doesn’t mean we can neglect workplace wellbeing. That’s why we’re delighted to announce that we have now been awarded the Good Health @Work Award! We’re dedicated to continuing our Good Health @Work journey too, we want all of us to continue to feel healthy and happy at work!”

Active Suffolk

“It has been a pleasure working with Active Suffolk in achieving their Bronze, Silver and Gold GH@W Award. From being part of the implementation process of the programme, helping us shape the support we offer to businesses across Suffolk, to now progressing through the award levels themselves, they continue to champion and showcase their commitment to workplace wellbeing.”

Laura Graham-Clarke, GH@W Advisor