Workplace wellbeing checks rolled out at Oakenholt mill
Global hygiene and health company Essity has delivered free on-site health checks for employees at its Oakenholt paper mill in Flintshire, following new research suggesting men across Wales are neglecting their health in the run-up to Christmas.
The UK-wide survey of 5,000 men found that 44% of Welsh respondents had ignored a physical health issue, while nearly one third (32%) had overlooked concerns about their mental health. Around a quarter (24%) said they actively avoid visiting the doctor during the festive period.
Many men cited fear, embarrassment and busy schedules as reasons for delaying medical help, with some later experiencing more serious complications.
The findings prompted Essity to introduce its ‘Health on the Shelf’ programme across its UK manufacturing sites, including Oakenholt. The initiative offers staff access to free checks for blood pressure, resting heart rate and cardiovascular risk, helping to identify potential issues early.
More than 450 employees across the UK took part, with some advised to seek further assessment from healthcare professionals.
Essity’s Oakenholt mill, which employs around 60 people, produces approximately 48,000 tonnes of paper annually for well-known brands including Tork, Cushelle and Plenty.
Gareth Lucy, corporate communications director UK & ROI for Essity, said:
“Oakenholt is a vital part of our UK manufacturing presence, and looking after the well-being of our teams is central to how we work.
“Ignoring health symptoms doesn’t make them go away; it risks making them worse. By introducing health stations directly into the workplace, we wanted to kickstart important conversations and make preventative health support part of everyday working life. This is as much about behavioural change as it is about check-ups. We want our workplaces to be environments where people feel supported, informed and confident to take ownership of their health.”
Essity’s roots in Flintshire date back to 1875. The Oakenholt mill continues to play a key role in the company’s operations, with the ‘Health on the Shelf’ initiative forming part of its wider mission to promote wellbeing and preventative health awareness across the workforce.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
