Reach: Programme significance and appeal
pre-lockdown, depression
The majority of staff described participating in the pre-lockdown SUH intervention as a positive experience overall. It was felt that SUH was a particularly significant and unique programme as it encouraged movement in a sedentary environment where staff are tied to the desk, and also brought attention to the lack of movement in this environment. The importance of the SUH programme in improving physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing was emphasised by both staff and managers. Managers expressed that the SUH programme helped them look after their staff better, and staff associated SUH with health and wellbeing in the workplace, targeting musculoskeletal issues and mental health. Encouraging team-work, uplifting team spirt, and providing a morale boost were aspects valued by staff and managers.‘The programme continued to be valued in the post-lockdown period, with staff associating SUH with looking after themselves which was considered especially important during lockdown. During a tough period, where staff were having feelings of depression, and did not really take time for themselves, staff felt that SUH provided a purpose and a variety of activities to help them cope. The post-lockdown activities provided staff with motivation and reminded them why it is important to sit less and look out for their wellbeing.‘(The individual consultations provided a much-needed wellbeing ‘check-in’, and the resources helped staff mitigate increases in sedentary behaviour and decreases in physical activity due to the restrictions on activities during the pandemic and, for many, the shift to home working. During a time when social gatherings and activities were challenging, SUH activities such as the step count challenges provided a fun way to encourage and support staff to engage in physical activity, with competitive elements which many staff welcomed and enjoyed.