Member of the Month
Wellbeing programme helps North East Lincolnshire Council employee get back on track following health challenges.
When I was at a very low ebb, Wellness to Work gave me a huge lift. It gave me a fresh start and purpose.
Rich Harrison (56).
Following an operation on his enlarged prostate in 2024, Rich was physically and mentally at a low point. Side effects left him needing time off work from his job as a Homeless Prevention Officer at North East Lincolnshire Council.
With a passion for running, Rich has run more than one hundred marathons since 2012. Following his operation last year however, he experienced loss of fitness, motivation and zest for life.
A colleague recommended the Lincs Inspire Wellness to Work programme and his manager, recognising the benefits of the scheme, was happy to refer him.
“I wasn’t prepared for how the operation would make me feel. I was running against a brick wall, constantly getting ill because my immune system was so low” explained Rich.
“The support of the programme was invaluable; it helped me regain my strength in the gym and pool, but most importantly, it improved my confidence and outlook on things. Combined with flexible working and an understanding management team, it meant I was able to recover and return to work much quicker than I would have otherwise.”
Rich is now back at work full time, where he feels most fulfilled helping homeless people from all walks of life. A member of Selby Striders Running Club, the Hull born athlete has since run two marathons, taking his awe-inspiring total to 118.
It’s great to hear Rich is back doing the things he loves. He’s an inspiring example of how a phased and supported approach to exercise can help aid recovery following an operation, as well as for many people managing long-term health conditions. Well done to employers like NELC for recognising the value of exercise and helping end the stigma around being active whilst off work.
Ian-Shorley Harlow, programme lead
Rich’s progress since has also seen him awarded Lincs Inspire Member of the Month for June.
Ian added: “What Rich has achieved through running is nothing short of superhuman and all the while with such humility. He’s shown character and determination to bounce back from his more recent health problems and he’s a worthy winner of our award – big well done to him!”
Rich would like to one day run the Tokyo Marathon, which would complete his six major marathons of the world, adding to his London, Berlin, Boston, Chicago and New York medals.
Thank you to Rich for sharing his story and well done from us all at Lincs Inspire.
Wellness to Work
Wellness to Work is a twelve-week programme run by Lincs Inspire and funded by local employers. It promotes positive health and wellbeing in the workplace through encouraging active lifestyles. The scheme helps employers invest in their workforce, reducing sickness absence, supporting recovery from illness and improving mental wellbeing.
