| Heartbeat Challenge is a health promotion programme that addresses cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors (poor nutrition, physical inactivity, smoking and stress) in workplaces. Lower socioeconomic and/or Maori and/or Pacific Island employees are disproportionately affected by these health issues.
The programme framework enables and empowers employees to help drive the programme and contribute to the content.
The aim of the programme is to create a workplace environment that supports wellbeing. Emphasis is placed on encouraging environmental change within the workplace such as in the provision of healthy food options in cafeterias, encouraging incidental exercise, providing bike racks, shower facilities and supporting smoking cessation programmes.
Workplaces that meet the Heartbeat Challenge criteria below are supported by a Workplace Health Promoter to work towards a Heartbeat Challenge Award. This is attained by achieving a set number of changes in each of the cardiovascular risk factor elements. The award is renewed every two years to ensure sustainability.
Heartbeat Challenge was originally developed by the National Heart Foundation. Since 2003 Heartbeat Challenge has been delivered by ARPHS and is funded by the Ministry of Health.
Heartbeat Challenge is currently active in over 100 workplaces and is only available in the wider Auckland Region.
Heartbeat Challenge programme: criteria for participation
Does your workplace qualify for this free programme?
Health statistics are poorest for low income earners and/or Maori and/or Pacific Island employees. These groups are priority targets for the Heartbeat Challenge programme. Organisations that meet the criteria include factories, disability support services, government departments, call centres, rest homes, local councils and district health boards.
If your workplace is in the wider Auckland region, you can find out if your workplace is eligible to take part in Heartbeat Challenge by clicking here to download the application form. Complete the form and send it to the address provided.. Alternatively, contact the Workplace Health Project Manager:
Judy Montgomery
jmontgomery@adhb.govt.nz
Ph (09) 6234600 x 27749 |