Scottish businesses challenged to keep staff on their toes

Paths for All is inviting organisations of all shapes and sizes to set-up their own bespoke walking challenge to help their workforce stay active and connected to their colleagues, as Scotland eases out of lockdown.

During May, more than 4000 furloughed staff and home workers participated in a special nationwide edition of the charity’s Step Count Challenge, with over 90 per cent saying the motivation of the challenge helped them cope better with the Covid-19 restrictions.

Now the charity is encouraging businesses to run in-house challenges so their staff can get active and stay connected with colleagues in a fun and interactive way, whether working at home or in the office.

Ian Findlay, chief officer at Paths for All, said: “Our special lockdown edition of the Step Count Challenge was one of our most successful, with more than 930 teams from across Scotland taking part.

“The vast majority of participants reported feeling much better for it and are planning to continue being more active during the working day in their new normal.

“The lockdown has reinvigorated many to get out and enjoy the outdoors – and surveys have shown that Scots have increased their walking during this time more than any other part of the UK.

“Our hope is that we can build on this success by working with even more organisations to create a workplace walking culture and hence a happier and healthier workforce.”

The bespoke Step Count Challenge is made up of teams of five and has one simple aim: encouraging people to walk more to feel happier and healthier.

Participants will have access to leader boards and team chats to keep them motivated and connected.

Businesses can register a team of five for just £30 – and can customise their own challenges with tailored branding and personalised messaging.

To sign up, visit www.stepcount.org.uk/bespoke-step-count-challenges.

Paths for All works with the Scottish Government and 30 partners to support and deliver national policies, such as the National Walking Strategy and active travel initiatives.

To find out more, visit www.pathsforall.org.uk.