National Work-Life Week takes place annually (this year it takes place between 7-11 October, 2024) and is here to remind us all of the importance of striking that perfect balance between our professional and personal lives. It's about more than just dividing your time equally, it's about feeling fulfilled in both areas.

A healthy work-life balance looks different for everyone. Whether it's juggling work commitments with family life, managing a demanding workload, or simply finding time for yourself, it's essential to prioritise your wellbeing. Remember, it's okay to say no sometimes and to set boundaries.

Practical tools and tips

We’ve put together some tips and links to local resources to help you on a practical level.

• Need some help with your time management? Learning platform SEEDL, which is free to local businesses and their employees, runs a course on managing your time.
• Perhaps you can turn some of your meetings into walking meetings, enjoy some time in nature and get your steps in!
• Explore the benefits of mindfulness for stress reduction and work-life balance. We offer free access to businesses and employees within the borough to SEEDL which has a number of courses including establishing a healthy work life balance and an introduction to mindfulness. You’ll also find plenty of yoga classes in the borough.
• For those working from home, creating a dedicated workspace can make a big difference. If you need a change of scenery we have plenty of coffee shops and co-working spaces locally. Explore our blog for alternative workspaces in the area.

• Make time for lunch. A little while ago we put together some ideas of how you could spend your lunch break. Take a read here.
• Unwind and make the most of your time away from work. We have some great places locally to explore take a read of our guide to local walks.
• Exercise is a good for the body and the mind. We have a huge number of participatory sports groups locally from archery to waterpolo, we are sure there is one for you. You can also find other ways to get active on the Energise Me

• Need a creative outlet? Check out our blog for a variety of local art classes, choirs, and other creative activities. Unwind and explore your passions to help you achieve a better work-life balance.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has developed a wellbeing toolkit – take a look for more tips and advice on keeping fit, eating well and self care.

Employer support

This year’s theme is flexible working and the aim is to showcase all of the ways flexibility can be possible, beyond home and hybrid working.

This week presents a great opportunity for employers to prioritise your employees' wellbeing. Consider organising a wellbeing event or simply encouraging open conversations about work-life balance. Think about your workplace culture, is it a supportive and inclusive one? You could also:

• Take a look at your flexible working policies - new flexible working laws came into effect earlier this year which mean millions of workers in the UK will have more flexibility over where and when they work. Have you updated your policies?
• Consider your hybrid working policies and procedures. Take a look at this guide from local consultancy Reality HR on hybrid working.
• Invest in an employee wellbeing programme or review your existing one to ensure it meets the needs of your current workforce. COVID changed the way many of us view our work-life balance but have your policies and support programmes also changed?

Need some more support?

The Mental Health Foundation offers valuable advice on achieving a better work-life balance. If you're facing challenges related to your employment rights, Citizens Advice can provide guidance, we have two in the borough: Tadley and Basingstoke.

Remember, a happy and healthy workforce is a productive one. Make this Work-Life Week count!

Written September 2024