Thousands of employees across the Linen Quarter are being encouraged to take time out during their working week as LQ BID’s Health Week returns for its seventh year from Monday 8 June. The event serves as an important reminder to employers to empower their teams to put their wellbeing first, and that in doing so they are making a difference to morale, productivity, and even retention.
With Belfast a designated European City of Sport this year, in recognition of how it leverages physical activity to enhance the lives of its citizens,LQ BID’s Health Week programme has put a greater emphasis on activities that foster inclusion and interaction. Among the shared experiences are padel and pickleball sessions which will take place at Grosvenor Hall, a game of 5 a side hosted at Shaftesbury Community & Recreation Centre, A ceili, a pétanque taster session, and a lunchtime 5k have also been confirmed.
The programme continues to include a diverse selection of wellbeing activities such as dog petting, massage sessions, and art and dance workshops, whilst Bodyscape and PureGym will host various fitness classes throughout the week. The event will also see the return of first aid and AED training to support workplaces with lifesaving skills, and LQ BID’s charity partner, NI Chest Heart & Stroke, will offer health checks to aid the early identification of preventable illness.
And as this year’s event coincides with UK Bike Week, cycling will be a key focus with LQ BID offering complimentary 100-minute Belfast Beryl bike hire vouchers.
Chris McCracken, Managing Director of LQ BID explained, “Health Week remains an important fixture year-on-year. It’s an opportunity for us to highlight our Healthy District agenda which is committed to a creating a place where health, happiness, and business flourish. This year’s expanded Health Week programme reflects a growing emphasis on preventative health and physical activity which are crucial components for a healthy body, but they also acknowledge the importance of social connection and community in wellbeing improvement.
“Businesses can maximise the benefits of health week by empowering their employees to take time out of their working week to experience at least one activity within this year’s programme. These short interventions and shared experiences are designed to make a meaningful difference to how people feel both inside and outside the workplace. A healthier, and more connected district has a real impact on our city’s resilience and economic productivity.”
Sustainable District Manager at LQ BID, Lawrence Geoffrey Tingson, said, “Health Week is a powerful reminder of the importance of looking after ourselves. We believe in creating accessible and enjoyable ways for the business community to stay active, demonstrated by our year-round initiatives such as our outdoor parklets which encourage greater time outdoors and our emphasis on active travel and support for cycling commuters through Cycling Friendly Employer accreditation. Each year we create more moments for people to take control of their health, connect with new people, recharge their mind and body, and even experience something new. When employers prioritise health and happiness, our business community thrives.”
Health Week events have limited capacity. Early booking is advised. For more information on events visit linenquarter.org/events.