At HECK! we believe that a happy and healthy team is the key to success. That’s why in 2025, we’re rolling out a whole range of new initiatives to support our employees’ wellbeing.
Our commitment to employee wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, guided by our H.E.C.K. Care Code. From healthier food choices to wellness spaces and community support, we’re making sure our team thrives in every way possible.
Keeping Health in CHECK
Last November, we introduced free workplace health screenings as part of our CHECK! campaign, which raised over £20,000 for men’s health charity Cahonas. This initiative, led by our co-founder Jamie Keeble, who overcame testicular cancer 10 years ago, was a huge success. It provided all HECK! employees with health MOTs, advice and GP referrals where needed. We’re proud to announce that this will now become an annual event, helping our teams to keep on top of their health.
We understand the deep connection between a positive work environment and personal well-being. Research by the Work Foundation at Lancaster University found that 64% of senior business leaders recognise that poor employee health can impact overall business performance. That’s why we are committed to cultivating a happy, healthy workplace, where stress is minimised and our teams can show up to work knowing their physical and mental well-being is prioritised and cared for.
Canteen Refresh & Wellness Area
We’ve also given our canteen menu a healthy refresh, introducing even more nutritious food options to keep our team fuelled throughout the day. But, wellbeing isn’t just about what we eat – it’s also about having the space to recharge. That’s why we’ve introduced a dedicated wellness area where employees can take a break, unwind and step away from the work pressures.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Fresh air and movement are essential for a balanced work-life routine, and we’re making it easier than ever for our team to get outside. Our ‘walking ambassador’ programme, first launched during lockdown, encourages employees to take lunchtime strolls around our 800-acre farm. We also have an on-site allotment and greenhouse, where staff can pick their own fresh fruit, veg and salad to enjoy in the canteen or take home.
We believe in the power of nature, so when the sun is shining, we often hold outdoor meetings. It’s a great way to spark creativity and keep stress levels low.
More Than Just a Workplace
At HECK!, we know that a workplace should be more than just a place to clock in and out. That’s why we offer perks like a free outdoor gym and a converted railway track for walking breaks. Plus, for our many pet-loving team members, we built a dog hotel! Staff are encouraged to bring their furry friends to work, allowing them to take a break, go for a walk and enjoy some quality downtime with colleagues.
Supporting the Community
We’re not just focused on our own wellbeing, we want to give back to the community too. Last year, we launched the HECK! Community Fund to support good causes across the country. This has now been expanded to include a community bus, which helps local people, particularly the elderly, get to market days and events. Since launching in October, the bus has already transported over 250 passengers!
Since launching in 2013, HECK! has grown into the UK’s largest independent sausage maker, employing 130 people at our Bedale HQ and supplying all major supermarkets. But no matter how big we get, our core values remain the same – putting people first, whether that’s our team, our customers or our community.
Here’s to a happy and healthy 2025!
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