Scandic's Strategic Approach to Employee Health and Wellbeing
In today's fast-paced corporate environment, the health and well-being of employees are paramount. Companies that prioritize these aspects often see higher employee engagement, productivity, and overall satisfaction. One company that has made significant strides in this area is Scandic, a leading hotel chain in Northern Europe. Through a strategic approach to employee health and well-being, Scandic has set an inspiring example for others to follow.
A Visionary Approach to Wellbeing Programs for Employees
Scandic’s HR Director, Fredrik, emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to well-being. This perspective is deeply ingrained in Scandic’s culture, where the wellbeing of employees, or “team members” as they are affectionately called, is a top priority. As Fredrik explains, “Health and well-being are the responsibility of the individual, but we can support the individual in having a healthy life.” This belief underscores Scandic’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment where employees can thrive.
Collaboration with Aumla
The comprehensive wellbeing program at Scandic was designed and run by Aumla, a leading expert in corporate wellness. The program’s foundation was built through a series of stakeholder interviews and data analysis, ensuring that it met the unique needs of Scandic’s diverse workforce. Aumla also developed all the content for Scandic's e-learning platform, which is accessible to all employees, providing them with valuable resources and knowledge at their fingertips.
Health Ambassadors: Driving Engagement at Every Level
A unique feature of Scandic’s wellbeing strategy is the role of Health Ambassadors. Each of Scandic’s over 270 hotels has a dedicated health ambassador tasked with promoting health initiatives and inspiring colleagues. These ambassadors are equipped with tools and resources to drive engagement, ensuring that health and well-being remain a focal point across the organization. Aumla’s experts also participated in online live events for all health ambassadors, creating greater awareness, interest, and focus on each specific theme.
Four Pillars of Wellbeing
Scandic’s approach to employee health and well-being is built on four pillars: mental health, social health, nutritional health, and physical health. Each pillar is designed to address specific aspects of employee well-being, creating a comprehensive support system.
1. Mental Health: Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, Scandic emphasizes rest and recovery. This includes promoting good sleep hygiene, stress management, and providing resources for mental health support. As Fredrik notes, “The brain is like a muscle; it needs rest as any muscle does.”
2. Social Health: Building a strong social environment is crucial. Scandic focuses on fostering a collaborative and friendly workplace where team members feel valued and connected. This includes initiatives to encourage social interaction and teamwork.
3. Nutritional Health: With a team of expert chefs, Scandic is well-positioned to educate employees on healthy eating. The company offers guidance on making nutritional choices that sustain energy levels throughout the day.
4. Physical Health: Scandic’s facilities often include gyms, and employees are encouraged to engage in physical activities that suit their individual needs. Whether it’s through structured fitness programs or simple daily activities like cycling to work, physical health is a key component of Scandic’s well-being programs.
Sustainability and Wellbeing: A Natural Connection
Scandic’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental practices to include the well-being of its employees. This holistic view of sustainability recognizes that sustainable people are essential to maintaining a sustainable business. By integrating health and well-being into their sustainability strategy, Scandic ensures that their workforce is not only engaged and productive but also resilient and prepared for the future.
Strategic Alignment and Leadership Commitment
Implementing an effective wellbeing program requires strategic alignment and commitment from the leadership team. At Scandic, the executive committee plays a pivotal role in championing health and well-being initiatives, ensuring they are integrated into the company's strategic goals. Aumla supports clients by providing the necessary expertise and resources to develop and maintain successful well-being programs. This partnership highlights the importance of dedicated resources and expert guidance in achieving the desired outcomes for employee health and business success.
Looking Ahead: Continuous Improvement and Innovation
As Scandic moves forward, the focus on health and well-being remains unwavering. The company aims to embed these initiatives deeply into its culture, ensuring they are not just a temporary focus but a permanent fixture. With a keen eye on future trends, Scandic is always exploring new ways to enhance employee well-being. By prioritizing the mental, social, nutritional, and physical health of their team members, Scandic not only fosters a positive workplace culture but also drives business success. As other companies look to enhance their own well-being programs, Scandic’s example, along with Aumla's expertise and support, offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Looking for ways to improve wellbeing for your team?
Book a free 30 minute discovery call with Miriam Sundholm to see how Aumla can support your health and wellbeing goals.
