Train-maker opens new work and wellbeing suite at Derby site

Train-maker Alstom has opened a new facility at its Derby site dedicated to supporting the physical, mental, social and financial wellbeing of its people and partners.

The launch of the Work & Wellbeing Suite at its historic Litchurch Lane Works formed part of a wider Health and Wellbeing Roadshow at the Derby facility.

It also coincided with the company’s Health and Wellbeing Week that took place across Alstom sites in the UK and Ireland, and around the world.

The new facility – a dedicated space inside the 150-year-old factory – provides colleagues with access to expert support, guidance and resources to improve wellbeing both at work and beyond.

It includes a new and expectant mother room, a dark room, a multifaith prayer room, a stretching room, three quiet zones, as well as a bright, open space perfect for group exercise and social events.

Based on an initial concept from Alstom staff Amanda Roe and Aimee Smith, the suite was designed and redeveloped by the Derby Wellbeing Champions.

These are a group of volunteers led by Annie Curtis and Amanda Roe who, alongside their core roles, promote a positive and supportive workplace culture, and help ensure colleagues have access to the resources they need to flourish.

The Work & Wellbeing Suite is currently open to Alstom staff, with the aim to extend its reach to partner organisations based at the site – including Opus Group and Yellow Rail – and visitors to Litchurch Lane.

Andy Butters, managing director of the Litchurch Lane Works, said: “At Alstom, we recognise that our people are our greatest strength, and their wellbeing is fundamental to everything we do.

“The opening of our Work & Wellbeing Suite in Derby – alongside our wider activity during Wellbeing Week – demonstrates our continued commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

“By bringing together expert partners and providing accessible resources, we are empowering our people to take control of their mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing.”

At the recent Health and Wellbeing Roadshow, staff attended talks and were able to access confidential one-to-one support.

Among the external organisations who attended was Baton of Hope.

Mike McCarthy, co-founder of Baton of Hope, who spoke at the facility’s launch, said: “Baton of Hope is the UK’s largest suicide awareness and prevention initiative, working to drive open conversations, challenge stigma and ensure more people can access the support they need.

“Creating spaces like Alstom’s Work & Wellbeing Suite is so important in helping to normalise conversations around mental health and ensure people feel supported, listened to and able to seek help when they need it.”