Staff at Bradford Teaching Hospitals kicked off their support for the London 2012 Olympic Games today as part of the Foundation Trust’s open week of events.

The launch of the NHS Challenge is part of the hospitals’ bid to encourage employees to take up more exercise in the lead-up to next year’s Games.  

Chief Executive, Miles Scott, said: “The aim of NHS Challenge is to inspire staff to improve their health and wellbeing by getting active and involved in sport whatever their ability.

“The Foundation Trust is working closely with other NHS organisations across the region as well as local sporting organisations and commercial companies to deliver a programme of sports and activities designed to appeal to health staff in the run-up to next year’s London Olympics.

“The aim of NHS Challenge in Bradford is to create a happier, healthier workforce, devoid of absenteeism, which ultimately should lead to a better patient experience and increased patient satisfaction so this is good news for everyone who uses our services here in the city.”

The NHS launch starts at 10am in the open event marquee, situated in the grounds of Bradford Royal Infirmary. Running until 4pm, Foundation Trust staff will get to sample a range of sports and physical activities currently on offer throughout the district.

Bradford Bulls’ coaches will host team building games and fun relays while there will be also be short taster sessions of zumba, kettle-bells, pilates, boxercise and circuits from noon to 2pm.

Staff will also be able to get health and fitness checks, advice and information on a wide range of activities for groups and individuals.

The day ends in the BRI marquee with the Foundation Trust’s now-annual staff quiz which begins at 6pm and this year, to tie in with the NHS Challenge launch, the event will have a special ‘Question of Sport’ theme.