Staff step up to healthy challenge for charity

A group of workers at Blackpool Victoria took part in the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund’s 10,000 Steps Challenge.

Launched on New Year’s Day, participants had to complete the recommended 10,000 steps each day for the month.

By the end of the month some walkers had even exceeded the full 310,000 steps, and more than £450 has been raised to help enhance patient care throughout the Trust.

Resourcing and contracts manager Andrea Padgeon, completed 511,000 steps over 31 days and raised £300.

She said: “I found it easier than I expected so looked to set myself an even bigger goal. I decided to go for half a million steps and just passed it, which was really pleasing.

“I went out at lunchtimes for a walk and made a real effort and it paid off. I have lost weight and feel much better I must admit, so I intend to keep walking as much as I can.

Blue Skies Hospitals Fund organised the challenge in partnership with the Trust’s Healthy Workforce Project, which aims to get staff thinking more about their health.

Project Mmanager Hannah Corless said: “It’s pleasing to hear how our staff who have taken part in this Blue Skies challenge are feeling more healthy and better about themselves just by increasing the number of steps each day.

“I don’t think people fully realise the amount of walking they do, both at work and at home, so there is a real sense of achievement behind completing 10,000 steps each day.

“Well done to all those involved, and to those who are keeping up their steps now that the challenge is over.”

Head of fund-raising and voluntary services, Caroline Scholz, also took part in the 10,000 steps effort.

She said: “This was the first year Blue Skies has organised an event like this, and we’re looking forward to repeating something similar next year.

“I personally can’t believe how many steps I did just moving around the house before leaving for work. I was able to do 10,000 steps before the end of the working day.”