What They Said about their steps challenge
The Wellbeing and Employee Experience Service had been looking for a way to support staff with their physical wellbeing and Big Team Challenge ticked all the boxes. Hosting the challenge helped to complement our psychologically informed programmes which includes Healthy Lifestyles and Barriers to Exercise courses.
Proud of being the first NHS Health Board in Wales to host this challenge, in 2023, 396 participants walked the virtual length of the Wales Coastal Path. Together more than 187 million steps were taken (at least 3 times around earth). By taking part in the challenge, an overwhelming 85% found participating in the challenge beneficial and having a positive impact on their emotional wellbeing and 83% reported it having a positive impact on their physical wellbeing.
Due to the success of our first challenge, in 2024, we held 2 challenges side by side (1 million step and 2 million step challenge) to support a cross section of staff regardless of where they are in their physical wellbeing journey. We had a total of 700 eager and enthusiastic participants and over 153 teams. Together we walked more than 5 times around Earth. Between the three challenges we have had a grand total of 1096 participants.
The Big Team Challenge team have been with us every step of the way (excuse the pun) and have been instrumental in supporting us throughout the whole process from set-up right through to hosting and the conclusion of the challenge.
Taking part in the Big Team Challenge has helped our staff improve both their physical and emotional wellbeing and has been great for team building. Due to our success, other Health Boards in Wales are looking to replicate our achievements.
Thank you, Big Team Challenge, for helping us to achieve our aim. Looking forward to hosting future challenges.