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News date: 10 January 2011
A CIPD* seminar sponsored by Pictons Solicitors LLP *(Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development)
Statistics show that we are getting heavier as a nation. A recent paper published by BUPA reported that 40 per cent of adults are likely to be obese by 2025. It is vital that HR professionals and business managers understand the impact of these statistics and how they can support the health of their employees and avoid the pitfalls of discrimination.
Yvonne Hardiman, a Partner and HR Consultant at Pictons, has taken the initiative, with the CIPD, to organise an event, entitled The Legal and Moral Aspects of Obesity in the Workplace, aimed at employers and HR specialists, for Wednesday February 2nd, 12-5pm at David Lloyd Leisure in Milton Keynes.
Yvonne says “This is a complex area. Research shows that people in a higher weight category are more likely to suffer from lack of confidence, bullying and harassment and the feeling that their appearance has resulted in them being disadvantaged in recruitment and promotions or access to training and development. Pictons want to inform and support businesses in the region so that they are armed with the knowledge they need to prevent discrimination in this area.
Pictons understand that this issue goes much deeper than ensuring compliance with legislation. This should be the starting point.
Employers are in a privileged position enabling them to contribute to improving the health of the nation whilst impacting positively on their own organisation’s productivity, increasing competitiveness, improving morale and generally creating a happier and healthier workforce. The good news is that it needn’t cost a fortune – it could be as simple as organising lunch time walks and putting healthier snack options in vending machines. It should be about giving people options, if they want to take them. Pictons are delighted to be working with the CIPD on this exciting event and look forward to contributing to the debate.”
The event has a selection of exceptional speakers, including Aye Limbin, Associate Solicitor and one of the team of employment experts from Pictons Solicitors LLP whose presentation will focus on the legal framework surrounding obesity; Sandra Furlong, Occupational Health Nurse, Milton Keynes Occupational Health who will focus on the practical tips employers can implement and Rob Beale, Group Health and Fitness Manager, David Lloyd Leisure who will talk about the benefits of health, fitness and weight loss.
Mark Gould, Leisure Benefits Manager, Midlands from leading retailers John Lewis and Gerald Remy, Deputy Dietetic Manager from Milton Keynes Hospital will provide case studies.
Ayala Jacobs, from the Milton Keynes CIPD Committee adds her support for the event: “With increasing levels of obesity in the UK, employers can play a vital role in promoting the health of the nation. The CIPD aims to be a leading force for employers and HR practitioners and our event will be interactive, where participants will have the opportunity to put questions to our speakers. They will also be able to network, make useful contacts and share best practice. It’s the first event on this subject in the region and we are confident it will be an invaluable and very productive afternoon for everyone who attends.”
To book a place on the event please visit the CIPD website at www.cipd.co.uk/branch/bedford/events. The event is free to CIPD members and £50 to non-CIPD members. A buffet lunch is included.
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