A WORKPLACE scheme involving a Cornish pasty manufacturer has been deemed 'highly commended' at the prestigious Local Government Chronicle Awards in Health and Wellbeing. The winners of the awards were announced at a gala presentation in London on Monday. Staff at Ginsters Ltd in Callington have been involved in a range of activities, including climbing, surfing, ice skating and tennis, all with the aim of increasing health awareness, reducing sickness and increasing productivity. The project has also introduced healthy menu options in the staff canteen, free fruit and help with quitting smoking. Mark Duddridge, Ginsters' managing director, said: 'We were convinced that an investment in the health of our people would pay dividends by improving the overall wellbeing of our staff and making them better equipped to help us achieve a successful future.' Organised by Caradon District Council as part of its work to improve the local economy and the health of local people, the three-year scheme is a national pilot that sets out to provide hard evidence for the benefits of physical activity and health promotion messages in the workplace. The University of the West of England is assessing the long-term impact the project has on the health of Ginsters' employees during the course of five years.
