Hello PPMA members and friends

This September and October, we’re delighted to be running our Showcase Webinar Series, celebrating the fantastic projects from across the country that were shortlisted for the PPMA Awards 2025. While not everyone is able to present a webinar, we’re delighted to share some of these inspiring initiatives here through a series of blog posts.

Today’s feature comes from the Colchester City Council team, who were shortlisted in the Best Health and Wellbeing Category. They’re sharing insights from their wonderful Wellbeing Day, held in June 2024—a brilliant example of how thoughtful initiatives can make a real difference for staff and community wellbeing.

 Celebrating Success: Colchester City Council’s Wellbeing Day 2024

In June 2024, Colchester’s MyLearning Team delivered an inspiring and impactful Wellbeing Day for staff—building on the success of 2023 and taking it to new heights. With over 850 staff invited, the event was a vibrant celebration of health, connection, and community.

 What Made It Special?

The day was packed with activities, information, and opportunities for staff to explore all aspects of wellbeing—from physical and mental health to financial and emotional support. Highlights included:

  • Physical Wellness: Yoga, NHS health checks, cardiovascular screenings, and even electric bike try-outs.
  • Creative & Mindful Activities: Wood whittling, knitting, leather crafting, and gardening.
  • Community Connections: Over 20 information stalls from partners like MIND, CARA, Next Chapter, and the Alzheimer’s Society.
  • Financial Wellbeing: Support from Wagestream, HSBC, and MyMoneyMatters helped staff explore benefits and financial tools.
  • Internal Engagement: From a Senior Leadership Bake Off to a raffle and team-building activities, the day fostered camaraderie and fun.

 Powered by Partnerships

The event was a true collaboration—supported by internal colleagues, local charities, and community organisations. This not only enriched the experience for staff but also deepened our understanding of the challenges our residents face, helping us shape more responsive services.

 The Impact

  • 150 staff completed the feedback survey—62% were glad they attended, and 59% said they’d come again.
  • The event cost a total of £136 —a testament to the power of community and creativity.
  • 73% overall wellbeing score result in the 2024 staff survey.

 Recognised and Rewarded

The MyLearning Team was proudly named Team of the Year 2024 in our staff recognition awards—a well-deserved accolade for their dedication and innovation.

 Looking Ahead

With fresh ideas already flowing, we turned our Wellbeing Day into a Wellbeing Week for 2025, making it even bigger and better. Thank you to everyone who made 2024 such a success!

Amanda Mann (she/her/hers)
People Operations Manager

If you’d like to see more from the 2025 Awards shortlisted and winning organisations check out our website here. The PPMA 2026 Awards will be open for entries shortly so keep an eye out for announcements.