Pause with Purpose
30 May 2025
Join a free colleague Wellbeing activity in June
We are excited to announce the launch of ‘Pause with Purpose’, a three-week wellbeing campaign designed exclusively for colleagues, running from Monday, 9 June to Friday, 27 June.
Building on our ‘Starting Well in 2025’ programme from January, the Colleague Wellbeing Team and our partners are excited to present a new wellbeing initiative this June. As we reach the midpoint of the year, we invite you to take an intentional pause and join an activity designed to support your health and wellbeing.
Why It Matters
In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to regularly overlook our own wellbeing. We can struggle to carve out small amounts of time in our weeks to pause and focus on our needs. This programme encourages you to join a session that could help you; move your body in a way that feels good for you, learn a new skill, build a new habit, check-in on your health, take some time for self- reflection or connect with others.
"At times, the most effective action we can take is a small pause. This campaign offers a valuable reminder that our health and wellbeing is important and looking after ourselves isn't just a bonus—it's essential."
Helen Brewis, Head of Colleague Wellbeing and Maizy Jenner, Colleague Wellbeing Manager.
Events
Friday, 30 May to Friday, 27 June
FREE Active Manchester Membership
Dedicate time to movement and take advantage of unlimited access to on-campus Wellbeing Studios and the Armitage Centre in Fallowfield. Designed for all fitness levels our memberships offer state-of-the-art equipment, expert guidance, and a range of classes to suit your needs. The Armitage and Wellbeing Studios class timetables will transition to the summer 2025 timetables from 6th June. Join our supportive community today and start your journey to a healthier, stronger you. (please note this offer does not apply if you have an existing paid membership).
Tuesday, 10 June
Lunchtime ‘Recharge’ Walks on Campus
A chance to help you unwind, connect with colleagues, and boost your mood with a short, mindful stroll around campus. Come solo or bring a teammate — 12:30 – 13:00, no prior registration needed, just head to the meet point with comfortable shoes. (on Wednesday, 18 June a longer campus tour walk is available from 12:00 to 13:15)
(also on Wednesday, 11, Wednesday, 18, Thursday 19, Tuesday 24, and Thursday, 26 June)
Meeting Point: Outside Benugo Cafe (Simon Building)
- Register your place for walk on Wednesday, 18 June (just turn up for other dates)
- Contact wellbeing@manchester.ac.uk
Wednesday 11 June
‘The Power of the Pause’ webinar, 11:00 -11:45, via Microsoft Teams
Join us for this engaging and reflective webinar where we explore why intentional pauses matter, how they support both our physical and mental health, and how simple pauses during the day can increase focus, reduce stress, and enhance our overall sense of balance and energy. The webinar will finish with a guided grounding exercise that colleagues can choose to participate in.
Wednesday, 18 June
Health Check Clinics on Campus, 11:00 – 14:00, Whitworth Committee Rooms D - F, Ground Floor, Whitworth Building. Building access information.
Our Occupational Health team will be running a FREE pop-up Health Check Clinic. You do not need to book a slot, you can just turn up. All staff are welcome.
Experimental Archaeology Club
Archaeologist for an afternoon, 12:00 – 14:00 (in-person, Mansfield Cooper Building 4.03 Building access information)
Ever wondered how to solve an 10,000 year old mystery? Join us and become an archaeologist for an afternoon as we piece together artefacts from Windy Hill in the Pennines while learning key skills such as artefact drawing, refitting and interpretive storytelling.
Friday, 20 June
Mesolithic Pendants - 12:00 – 14:00 (in-person, Mansfield Cooper Building 4.03. Building access information)
Join us in making a plant fibre cord and carved stone pendant inspired by the Mesolithic Star Carr pendant from Yorkshire.
Wednesday, 25 June
Free Pop up Health Check Clinics on Campus, 11:00 – 14:00, 3A.052, Nancy Rothwell Building. Building access information.
Our Occupational Health team will be running a FREE pop-up Health Check Clinic. You do not need to book a slot, you can just turn up. All staff are welcome.We encourage all colleagues to get involved - If you would like to attend an activity from the Pause with Purpose programme, before booking, please co-ordinate with your line manager and team to ensure sufficient cover for your role.
More Information
- Contact wellbeing@manchester.ac.uk