Psychologically healthy workplaces demonstrate greater resilience in financially hard times

VANCOUVER - Psychologically healthy organizations demonstrate greater resiliency and benefit from reduced operating costs, less lost time, improved productivity and stronger customer/client relations. The British Columbia Psychologically Healthy Workplace Collaborative, a standing committee of the British Columbia Psychological Association, is acknowledging and awarding organizations that recognize and excel in ensuring a healthy workplace for their employees with the 2009 Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards.

The award is open to all BC companies that address five criteria for a psychologically healthy workplace including, Employee Involvement, Work-Life Balance, Employee Recognition, Employee Growth and Development, and Health and Safety. The deadline for nominations is July 31st, 2009. Winners will be acknowledged at a reception October 15, 2009.

The impact of the down-turn in the economy has affected all sectors in British Columbia. But research shows that engaged, satisfied and involved staff help companies improve their bottom line and thrive, even in difficult times. As Barry Forbes, President and CEO of Westminster Credit Union noted: "We recognize the vital link between the well-being of our employees and the success of our credit union. Westminster Savings' track record of low turnover and strong organizational performance demonstrates the positive benefits of investing in programs that promote a psychologically healthy workplace." Westminster Credit Union was a 2007 winner of the BC Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards and went on to be both a Best Practices Honoree and an overall winner at the 2008 international awards event in Washington, DC.