December 10, 2024
Every November, a global movement known as Movember gains momentum. What began as a small group of friends in Australia growing moustaches to raise awareness for men’s health has now evolved into a worldwide initiative.
The movement focuses on three key issues: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. This year Galloper worked to spread awareness, support employees and raised over £1,300, embracing the spirit of Movember.
Movember is not just about growing moustaches – it’s about creating a culture where mental health, well-being, and support for male health are top priorities.
“I think it’s likely that we all know someone that could or could have benefitted from more support at difficult times in their lives. Movember is a platform that can spark conversations that might not otherwise happen,” says General Manager Ben Donald. “Men’s health often takes a backseat, so Movember gives us an opportunity to shift the focus and get people talking about their health in a positive, open way.”
Galloper’s participation is focused team-building activities, fundraising initiatives, and providing resources for employees to take care of their physical and mental health.
Firstly, the month-long moustache growing challenge. Employees are encouraged to grow out their facial hair in support of the campaign. For those who can’t grow a moustache (or prefer not to), members of the team took up a running challenge, aiming to reach a target of 60km each throughout November to highlight the 60 men globally who die to suicide every hour.
Raising Awareness for Mental Health
While moustaches are fun, Galloper is very aware that Movember’s true purpose is about much more than facial hair. The company also hold regular team wellbeing days – an opportunity to get away in to nature and away from work and bond as a team or invite guest speakers and wellbeing initiatives to our facility. The site also has dedicated wellbeing ambassadors, and a culture dedicated to making all aspects of safety, including mental safety as a priority.
“It’s about creating space for our employees to take care of themselves holistically, mentally, and physically. We want our people to know that it’s okay to ask for help and talk openly about things like anxiety, depression, and stress. These conversations save lives.” said Ben.
This is a commitment to fostering a culture of health, supporting each other, raising awareness, and making sure we’re all doing what we can to live healthier, more fulfilled lives.”
