A group of Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBi) employees have lost more than 25 stones after taking part in a workplace weight management programme.
The eight-week healthy working programme was delivered to the group of 30 – about half of whom were men – at the firm’s Glasgow factory by Scottish Slimmers.
RSBi manufactures furniture for construction contracts. More than half of its 260 staff have a disability, including visual and hearing impairments and learning disabilities.
The company chose to add slimming classes as part of its commitment to promoting healthy working lives. Classes were held at lunchtime to increase participation. RSBi has now booked a second programme.
Audrey McJimpsey, training manager at RSBi said, “We’re astonished at the success of our first ever weight management programme, and extremely proud of our staff for their dedication to adopting healthier lifestyles.
“Businesses are increasingly offering employees the opportunity to access support to keep fit and manage their weight as part of improving workplace wellbeing. It’s not something we’ve tried until now, but we felt it was the right thing to do, especially as it allows staff to fit sessions into their working week.
“What’s been fantastic to see is how the staff who took part grew in confidence as the weeks went by. It wasn’t just because they were feeling good about losing weight, though; people began talking to others in the group about recipes and diet tips, and making new friends. It’s been really lovely to see staff who were previously very quiet come out of their shell.”
