A healthy outside starts from inside – wellbeing at Envu

Why is wellbeing so important for Envu’s culture?

At Envu our teams are our most valuable asset. It’s the team that commits to our customers, with time, care and expertise, so it’s vital that we look after our employees. Wellbeing is key to this, being able to support with flexible and comprehensive working environments shows our trust and commitment for a healthy workplace. Fostering wellbeing strategies and embedding them across the business is key and of course encouraging a healthy life: work balance.

And of course, everyone has their part to play in order to engender and enforce this culture.

What does wellbeing mean to you?

For me wellbeing is about getting outside, exercising and spending time with my family. I belong to a local circuit training group named Flash Sports & Fitness in my village, this gives me a great opportunity to engage with friends and keep mentally and physically fit at the same time. I’m also part of a team, both inside work and outside.  So, when my circuit group committed to the Three Peaks Challenge, of course I was in (together with my wife and 14-year old daughter).

 

Tell us more about the Three Peaks Challenge?

The National Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing the three highest peaks of Scotland, England and Wales. Some people do this in 24 hours but we decided to do 3 peaks over 3 days, which seemed a more practical approach. The three mountains include: Snowdon, in Wales (1085m), Scafell Pike, in England (978m), Ben Nevis, in Scotland (1345m) – the tallest peaks in each respective region.

 

How did you feel when you started and reached the first peak?    

We had driven to Scotland to cover Ben Nevis first and set off with a spring in our step! I started out walking and just put my head in the place of “I’ve just got to get this done”! In total we had a team of 15 so there was some great comradery and friendly banter which kept us going.

One thing which I was not prepared for, was the weather. I couldn’t understand why my wife wanted to pack gloves, but she was right! Going from shorts and t-shirts to waterproofs and jumpers, the weather throughout the challenge did not disappoint!

Reaching the first peak gave me a huge sense of pride and achievement, however with zero visibility it was hard to embrace the scenery. The descent proved slightly demanding, thanks to an unexpected wardrobe malfunction - my disintegrating walking boots.

 

With one down and two to go – tell us about the challenges at Scafell Pike

Scafell Pike was the leg I wish I'd been better prepared for. It wasn't so much the physical strain as the relentless ascent of steps that proved daunting, it was like being on a treadmill. This is where we were all mentally tested, with sideways rain to top it off. We had to dig deep, but our brioche buns, bananas and plenty of fluids kept us going.

 

The last leg in sight, what kept you going?

Snowdon appeared deceptively manageable, luring us with a false sense of ease. However, this illusion quickly dissipated as we navigated more challenging tracks and limited footpaths. My inherent competitive spirit and determination fuelled my progress. Having my family there with me, especially my 14-year-old daughter, meant I took my mind off myself.

I would like to say reaching the final summit was a great photo opportunity and time to soak in the views, but like all the previous summits we couldn’t see further than 50 yards in front!

 

What are your best memories of the challenge?

Despite the visibility at the summits and variable weather, all the scenery is stunning for different reasons. The lakes at Ben Nevis are probably the most memorable, and Snowden Miner’s path, which looks over reservoirs, is beautiful too. I personally enjoyed the challenge for myself but also to do it with friends and family was something I will cherish.

 

Would you recommend it to others?

Absolutely 100%, but make sure you are prepared with the right equipment!

One thing that it was awesome for, was clearing your mind. You don’t think about anything else other than where your feet are going.

 

What's next?!

The circuit club is looking at other challenges, such as coastal walks or Hadrian’s wall - but that will be next year!  And in the meantime, my view on life, business and my teams remain the same… if we believe we can, we’re halfway there!