Background

BT has 800 employees here working on its NI Networks business providing the network infrastructure and support that helps businesses, communities, and individuals to communicate. This team is also responsible for the roll out of broadband and fibre broadband throughout the region.

What BT did

Health, Safety and Wellbeing is a critical business priority for BT’s NI Networks team, 45% of which are aged over 55, and 26% are aged 60 and over. Recognising the physically demanding nature of the work of this team, BT implemented a new Wellbeing strategy within its Networks business in 2012, and a senior manager was appointed to review both provision and programmes. BT truly believes that by supporting its employees’ health and wellbeing, it will be able provide a happier and healthier workforce ready to give its customer the best possible experience.

The objectives of this strategy in 2012 were simple; place wellbeing at the focus, encourage self-reliance/empower employees to take control of their own wellbeing (both at home and work), and provide supportive and enabling leadership in its wellbeing journey. Using this as the framework, BT designed a programme pillared on three key areas: getting healthy, staying healthy, and recovering health. This programme is led a Senior Operations Manager and galvanised by a cross-functional steering group which is championed at Director Level, and sponsored at UK Managing Director Level.

Many of the initiatives implemented by the Health and Wellbeing group are employee-led, and occur on a quarterly basis and have included: installation of defibrillators, Fitness Bootcamps, regional Pilates and Yoga classes (held in-house or a local locations), and partnership working with the Cancer Focus health bus visiting regional offices.

Impacts and Outcomes

To find out more, email barbara.roulston@bt.com