A number of our colleagues volunteer their time as Wellbeing Champions across the University. They signpost employees to the University wellbeing services, promote national health and wellbeing days, get involved with organising University wellbeing events and arrange locally based wellbeing initiatives to engage and support staff. They also feedback to the Wellbeing Champions Network so that future initiatives can be developed for the University.
Recent events organised by our champions have included a walking tour of the MECD building, an opportunity to meet Murray the therapy dog (from Manchester Museum) and writing for wellbeing sessions. Additionally, many of our champions work with their teams to embed a culture of wellbeing by getting wellbeing included as a regular item on team meeting agenda. As a group, we connect through our Teams channel where we share information and ideas.
Please read our Wellbeing Champions Guide and our detailed information below. If you would like to become a Wellbeing Champion simply email wellbeing@manchester.ac.uk. Don't forget to seek your line manager's permission in advance.
What does a Wellbeing Champion do?
A Wellbeing Champion will be expected to:
- Cascade wellbeing advice and event information to all staff within their local area to create stronger wellbeing awareness and engagement.
- Organise and promote approved events that link with the annual wellbeing calendar that is being developed.
- Attend Wellbeing Champion events or training.
- Feedback to the Wellbeing Champions Network so that future initiatives can be developed for the University.
- Know the boundaries of their role as a Champion.
Activities will involve:
- Promote a culture of wellbeing by signposting colleagues to University wellbeing opportunities and services via poster displays, email, social media and other relevant communications channels.
- Identify examples of positive change which has occurred in their area in order to share best practice with colleagues.
- Be familiar with local communication channels and how to access them to boost wellbeing messages.
- Develop and share knowledge of the Support Services within the University (EAP, counselling, Wellbeing Rooms etc.) and be able to advise and direct colleagues where necessary.
- Link up with other Champions who may be working within your Directorate or Faculty to ensure communications.
Who we are looking for?
- Be enthusiast about wellbeing. This doesn’t mean you have to be the fittest person in your office! We are looking for the type of person who is committed to wellbeing for themselves and others.
- A positive, approachable nature and able to respect confidentiality.
- Supportive attitude to those who may have experienced mental health issues.
Commitments
- A minimum one year commitment to the Wellbeing Champions Network.
- Participate in the virtual Wellbeing Champions Network.
- Attend meetings where necessary.
- Feedback on activities undertaken at local level
- Contribute to the ideas and feedback to the Wellbeing Champions Network.
Benefits of being a Wellbeing Champion
- You will be able to share information and advice that could help improve the wellbeing of yourself and colleagues.
- You will have the opportunity to feedback and help contribute to wellbeing developments.
- The role helps you connect with other colleagues across the University.
- It’s a personal development opportunity.
List of Wellbeing Champions
Please get in touch with your local Wellbeing Champion:
- If you are new to the University and need an overview of wellbeing services
- Current employees who are looking for the latest information on wellbeing services
- You want advice on becoming a Wellbeing Champion (there is no restriction on the number of Wellbeing Champions in an area, but we ask that Champions work together if in the same area to avoid overlap)
Become a Wellbeing Champion
Please email wellbeing@manchester.ac.uk for more details or to register an interest in the role.