RED January

Event information

Date
Website
https://redjanuary.com/

Learn how employers can use RED January to encourage employees to move more at work to benefit both physical and mental health and wellbeing.

The importance of supporting RED January at work

RED January is a nationwide campaign that encourage people to move more every day throughout January to support their mental wellbeing.

A positive workplace that encourages movement and regular activity helps employees stay healthy, happy and motivated. Regular movement can:

  • Boost energy and focus
  • Reduce stress and improve mood
  • Lower the risk of health issues such as back pain and burnout

Find out more about creating active workplaces.

Get involved in RED January at work

There are many ways to take part in RED January. When planning activities, remember to make them inclusive for employees with disabilities.

Here are some things you could do in your workplace:

Share information and resources

Use newsletters, intranet pages or staff emails to share activity ideas.

Promote the benefits of regular movement for both physical and mental health.

Signpost employees to local sports groups or clubs they can join outside of work.

Organise workplace activities

Encourage employees to move more during their working day with simple, engaging activities:

  • Organising lunchtime taster sessions such as yoga or Pilates
  • Arrange walking meetings
  • Encourage active breaks away from desks or share stretching exercises that can be done while sitting down

Set up a workplace challenge

Create a friendly movement challenge where employees track their daily activity. Friendly competition can be a great way of motivating employees to take part and move more.

Celebrate progress and share success stories throughout the month to motivate others to take part too.

Maintaining an active workplace throughout the year

While RED January is a great starting point, promoting movement year-round helps sustain long-term health and wellbeing.

Other ways to encourage employees to be active include:

Promote green travel options

Provide resources on active commuting such as cycling or walking routes.

Remind staff that using public transport can often include more walking than driving directly to work.

Encourage healthy workplace habits

Promote small daily actions like taking the stairs or parking further away.

Offer standing desks or flexible spaces to reduce sedentary time.

Use support from other services

There are a range of organisations that can assist you and your employees to create a more active workplace:

Find out more about how employers can promote active workplaces.

Find out more

Visit the RED January website to explore resources and campaign ideas for your workplace.

Stay up to date with future health and wellbeing campaigns by signing up to our newsletter.


  • Campaign