Creating a network of Wellbeing Champions is one of the most effective ways to embed a culture of health and wellbeing into your workplace. These individuals act as positive role models, peer supporters, and catalysts for change – helping to promote wellbeing initiatives, reduce stigma, and signpost to support when needed. Here’s how to implement a successful Wellbeing Champion programme in your organisation.

1. Define the Purpose and Objectives

Start by outlining why you want to establish a network of Wellbeing Champions. Consider the specific challenges or goals your organisation faces, such as:

• Raising awareness of mental health
• Improving employee engagement
• Reducing absenteeism or presenteeism
• Creating a more inclusive and supportive culture

Set clear objectives and outcomes for your programme – this will guide recruitment, training, and evaluation.

2. Secure Senior Leadership Buy-in

A successful Wellbeing Champion network needs backing from the top. Secure support from senior leaders by:

• Presenting evidence on the ROI of wellbeing (e.g. reduced sickness absence, improved morale)
• Aligning the programme with broader business strategies (e.g. ESG goals, people development, DEI)
• Sharing success stories from other organisations

Senior sponsorship ensures that the initiative is taken seriously and receives the necessary time and resources.

3. Create a Role Profile and Recruitment Process

Define what a Wellbeing Champion does in your business. A typical role may include:

• Promoting wellbeing events and campaigns
• Encouraging open conversations about mental and physical health
• Signposting colleagues to support services (e.g. EAP, HR, NHS)
• Modelling healthy behaviours and work-life balance

Make sure this role is voluntary, with reasonable time commitment (e.g. 1–2 hours per month), and ensure line managers are informed and supportive. Then promote the opportunity across all departments, encouraging a diverse mix of employees to apply.

4. Provide Robust Training and Ongoing Support

Wellbeing Champions must feel confident in their role. Offer initial training to build skills in:

• Mental health awareness
• Active listening and empathy
• Boundary setting and signposting
• Communication and campaign delivery

CPD-accredited training ensures high-quality learning and credibility. Follow this up with regular check-ins, peer support meetings, and refresher sessions to maintain momentum.

5. Establish Clear Governance and Communication

To keep the programme structured and impactful:

• Nominate a central coordinator or wellbeing lead to manage the network
• Provide Champions with clear guidelines, resources, and access to internal communication tools
• Encourage Champions to share feedback and ideas for improvement

Create a reporting process so Champions can track activities and outcomes – this is vital for evaluating success and making the case for future investment.

6. Integrate with Broader Wellbeing Strategy

Your Wellbeing Champion network should not operate in isolation. Ensure it links to:

• Your mental health and wellbeing policy
• Occupational health services and HR support
• Learning and development opportunities
• Calendar campaigns (e.g. Stress Awareness Month, Movember)

Champions can play a key role in delivering and promoting these activities – turning strategy into action at a local level.

7. Recognise and Celebrate Contributions

Motivate your Champions by recognising their contribution. This could include:

• Certificates or CPD points
• Thank-you events or internal awards
• Highlighting their work in newsletters or intranet features
• Including the role in personal development plans

Recognition not only supports retention but also encourages others to get involved in future recruitment waves.

8. Evaluate and Evolve the Programme

Regularly review how the network is working. Use both qualitative and quantitative feedback, such as:

• Surveys and focus groups with Champions and wider staff
• Uptake of campaigns or services
• Improvements in wellbeing metrics or engagement scores

Be prepared to adapt the programme based on feedback, business changes, or emerging needs.

Final Thoughts

Implementing a Wellbeing Champion network is a powerful step towards a more supportive, health-focused workplace. With the right planning, training, and leadership support, Champions can help build a resilient, inclusive culture where every employee feels valued and empowered.

Find out more about our wellbeing champions training, here www.wellbeingchampions.com