S&L is prioritising the well-being of its team by progressing its plans to become one of Preston’s first Stay Well Employers. Working with It’s Mental, the Stay Well philosophy is to try and move away from reactive health solutions to everyday practices that sustain long-term wellbeing.

Deborah Smith already sits on the Advisory Board of It’s Mental and is on the Steering Group for the Stay Well Preston Strategy. As part of S&L’s commitment to the Stay Well philosophy, Mike Hughes at S&L has trained as a Stay Well Ambassador.

Mike Hughes said, “The Stay Well programme encourages you to explore the activities that are important to you and to understand what keeps us well.  As part of the programme, you are asked to record how different activities connect with your emotions. By looking at different types of activities, for example, a walk, time with friends, or meditation, you can more easily see which activities keep you well and what might be missing.

“It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress, kindness to ourselves, and building a lifestyle that helps us to stay well. I am very grateful to S&L for giving me the opportunity to train as a Stay Well Ambassador. It has not only given me the ability to help myself but also to support colleagues, friends, and family. The training I’ve had as part of this initiative has been beneficial and is helping the Company with its plans to become a Stay Well employer.

In addition, S&L’s commitment to a work-life and health balance has seen the firm introduce a four-day working week following a successful trial. Deborah Smith added, “Our four-day workweek has significantly improved team morale and overall job satisfaction, as everyone feels more valued and balanced. The extra day off each week has boosted focus, creativity, and productivity during working hours and created a motivated team culture.”