Donegal County Council staff clock up 6,000k in Walking Challenge

This year the presentations for Donegal County Council’s Staff Walking Challenge were held on Workplace Walking Day, part of National Walking Week, and National Make Way Day – the public awareness event to highlight the needs of people with disabilities in the public spaces we all share. 

The workplace walking challenge was launched by Donegal County Council Chief Executive, Mr John G McLaughlin to encourage staff to get more physically active and promote healthy habits. 

Mr McLaughlin said: “As a progressive Local Authority, Donegal County Council endeavours to provide opportunities for our staff to enjoy a culture of positive physical and mental health and wellbeing. Starting a healthy routine can be difficult but this is our third year running the staff walking challenge with feedback informing us that the annual event helps get staff active after the shorter, darker winter days.”

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Over the four-week challenge, teams collectively walked over 6,000km - the equivalent of walking around Ireland six times. Donegal County Council, through its Health and Wellbeing team is committed to supporting and encouraging staff to make exercise a part of their everyday lives; as there is significant evidence that physical activity of moderate intensity promotes wellbeing, physical and mental health, prevents disease, improves quality of life, and has economic, social and cultural benefits. 

The winners were announced at a presentation. Prizes, which had a health and wellbeing theme, were all from local Donegal businesses and were awarded by Donegal County Council Chief Executive, Mr John G McLaughlin.