Category: Bedfont news

World Well-being Week is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of well-being in various aspects of life, including physical, mental, and emotional health. This year it takes place from June 24^th to June 30^th.

According to a recent study in 2023, personal well-being has declined, with the COVID-19 pandemic having a significant impact. Average ratings of well-being in the UK have declined across all measures between March 2022 and March 2023, with 57.41% of adults reporting high levels of anxiety and 46.6% reporting low levels of happiness¹.

During World Well-being Week, companies are encouraged to support their employee’s well-being through various activities and resources. Workplace stress and burnout can significantly impact employee productivity and job satisfaction. Reports have shown that companies prioritising well-being have happier and more engaged employees, increasing workplace productivity and reducing employee absences.

Bedfont® have their very own team of Well-being Warriors, ensuring employees can take part in activities designed to reduce stress and enhance the workplace environment. Bedfont® is fully committed to well-being in the office and strives to promote and maintain the mental health and well-being of all employees, proving this by being presented with the Platinum Business Award by Kent County Council in April 2023, the highest award possible for promoting a positive work environment, and a health work/life balance.

In 2023, Bedfont® also opened their very own well-being garden, in memory of 2 well loved members of staff. The vision behind the garden is to give staff a special space to be able to enjoy, collect their thoughts, and de-stress.

Earlier this year, the Bedfont® Well-being Warriors were in full force for Stress Awareness Month, which occurs annually in April. The Warriors organised a week of stress-busting activities for staff, which included a virtual coffee morning, a stress-busting activity – Pictionary, a Wednesday walk, a Bedfont® bar with a music Kahoot quiz, and a healthy lunch. Employees were encouraged to join the activities and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

With personal well-being declining, it’s important, now more than ever, to ensure everything is being done to improve employee well-being. Here are some examples of how Bedfont® has been working to improve morale and well-being:

Well-being Gifts: Sending well-being packages or gifts to employees, such as stress balls, herbal teas, or wellness journals, to encourage them to take time for self-care.

Team Building Activities: Organising team-building activities that promote collaboration and social-well-being. These could be anything from group problem-solving challenges to fun games or social events.

Relaxation Spaces: Establishing relaxation zones in the workplace where employees can take short breaks to de-stress. These could include comfortable seating, ambient music, and access to mindfulness or meditation apps.

Healthy Eating Day: Promoting nutrition by hosting a healthy eating day. This could involve a workshop on nutritional information, providing healthy meals or snacks, or even organising a cooking demonstration focusing on healthy recipes.

Follow us on social media to keep up with all the news and information on what Bedfont® is doing to improve employee well-being.

1. Personal well-being in the UK: April 2022 to March 2023. [Cited on 8/5/24] Available from https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/bulletins/measuringnationalwellbeing/april2022tomarch2023#:~:text=Adults%20with%20%E2%80%9Cvery%20bad%E2%80%9D%20self,and%203.8%25%2C%20respectively

As the world prepares to mark another World Environment Day, it is time for Bedfont® to reflect on its journey towards sustainability and nurturing the planet.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5th, was established by the United Nations in 1974 to promote awareness and action for the protection of our environment. With more than 143 countries participating, the day serves as a global platform for public outreach.

Initially established to create environmental awareness among governments and the public, World Environment Day has played a crucial role in educating people worldwide about significant environmental issues, whilst also proving instrumental in promoting the connection of human and environmental health, and highlighting the global nature of many environmental challenges.

The day has supported environmental initiatives like recycling programs, conservation projects, and laws to reduce carbon emissions and protect natural habitats. The day has also been pivotal in influencing public and government attitudes towards environmental policy.

At Bedfont®, every day is an opportunity to implement and innovate for the environment; this includes always looking for ways to reduce its impact, working with employees, customers and suppliers to develop its infrastructure, processes, products, and packaging in ways that minimise its carbon footprint. From installing solar panels and increasing recycling bins on the premises, to switching cleaning products to eco-friendly options, using hand dryers instead of hand towels, going paperless in the office, these are just some of the ways Bedfont® are committing to their eco resolution. This commitment is a core value that informs every decision made, and Bedfont® are excited to share the strides they have made for a greener, more sustainable future.

Bedfont® are working hard to achieve Scope 3 emission levels, which is crucial for a complete understanding of its environmental impact. By embracing renewable energy in the form of solar panels and encouraging staff to recycle waste, these are just a couple of the small steps taken to start the process of achieving this. With a dedicated team of Eco-Warriors, Bedfont® are always striving to remain innovative to reduce our carbon footprint, but also raise awareness of how even the smallest change can make huge reduction to our carbon footprint.

Achieving Scope 3 emission reductions is crucial for Bedfont® as it encompasses the majority of their
carbon footprint, extending beyond their direct operations to their entire value chain. This commitment underscores their dedication to a sustainable future and their journey to becoming carbon neutral.

As we recognise World Environment Day, remember that our actions, no matter how small, accumulate into significant environmental impacts. Bedfont® is dedicated to exceeding environmental responsibilities, in every product, every process, every day. Together, a path can be forged that respects our planet and secures a sustainable future for generations to come. To share your environmental progress with us, and to keep up to date with the Bedfont® eco resolution, environmental efforts and news, follow us on social media.

Local company Bedfont Scientific Ltd. unites forces with NewMed Ltd. as joint Headline Sponsors for Heart of Kent Hospice Bluebell Walk 2024/5

Kent med-tech manufacturer Bedfont is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with NewMed Ltd. as a joint headline sponsor for Heart of Kent Hospice.

Bedfont is proud to be known as a world leader in breath analysis, having specialised in designing and manufacturing breath analysis medical devices for over 47 years. Using innovative technology, Bedfont provides cutting-edge medical devices at affordable prices to improve accessibility and healthcare standards worldwide.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont Scientific Ltd., comments, “As a business, Bedfont is always looking for ways to give back to the community through charity events and sponsorships. We are thrilled to be teaming up with NewMed as a PEMF supplier and Heart of Kent Hospice as a brilliant charity. Both NewMed and Heart of Kent Hospice align with our core values, and we believe that through this collaboration, we can make a lasting difference throughout Kent. This marks a new chapter in Bedfont’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, and we are eager to share the positive outcomes with the world.”

For over 33 years, Heart of Kent Hospice has been providing compassionate, end-of-life care to people with terminal illnesses and their loved ones in Maidstone, Aylesford, Tonbridge, Malling and the surrounding towns and villages.

David Dadswell, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Heart of Kent Hospice, explains, “Our vision is for everyone living with a terminal illness in our community to achieve the best quality of life. They are committed to achieving this by enabling those patients under our care to live comfortably, with independence and dignity to the end of their lives, and to support those closest to them. We are thrilled to have not one but two headline sponsors support us and our work. Bedfont and NewMed are impressive companies in our community whose focuses are improving healthcare and wellbeing – perfect matches for the Hospice.”

Andy Smith, Managing Director at NewMed Ltd.,adds, “Sponsoring Heart of Kent Hospice aligns with our mission of enriching lives through PEMF therapy. This dual collaboration demonstrates our dedication to fostering positive change in people’s well-being. We are looking forward to working closely with Bedfont and Heart of Kent Hospice to support our local community.”

Bedfont and NewMed’s first event as headline sponsors will be the annual Bluebell Walk, taking place this year on Sunday 5th May 2024. The annual event sees walkers of all ages enjoy a stroll through the Bluebells of the Kent Countryside. Both companies will be there to support Heart of Kent Hospice and take part in the walk themselves. To join them, register for the walk here: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/BluebellWalk2024

Bedfont^® scoops the Innovation Award and Export Award at the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Business Awards

Medical device manufacturer, Bedfont^®, is elated to announce its recent success in winning two esteemed business awards at the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. The annual business awards, which took at Westenhanger Castle on Thursday 23^rd of November, bring together the business community showcasing the amazing achievements of a range of businesses and talented individuals throughout Kent.

Bedfont^® was delighted to have won Success in International Trade 2023, boasting over 82 distributors worldwide, with exports accounting for 80% of turnover for the past 9 years.

Bedfont^® was over the moon to win Innovative Business of the Year 2023, making it the 3rd year in a row – a significant achievement and testament to the innovation that is at the heart of Bedfont^®.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont^®, comments, “We are incredibly honoured to receive not just one, but two prestigious business awards. This achievement reflects the hard work and enthusiasm of the exceptional members of the Bedfont^® Family and our dedicated network of Distributors. Each member has played a vital role in our success, and these awards celebrate the collective effort that defines our company culture and core values.”

Bedfont’s mission is to work with the Bedfont^® Family and healthcare professionals worldwide to provide cutting-edge breath analysis medical products to the highest standard, through technical innovation and professional business practice. Bedfont’s vision is a world where everyone has access to instant, non-invasive, simple breath testing to aid in medical diagnosis.

Bedfont^® opens a new wellness space for encouraging a carbon conscious approach and memorialising loved ones

Bedfont^® proudly announces the successful transformation of unused space into a Wellbeing Garden. This innovative initiative not only underlines Bedfont’s commitment to its employees’ wellness but also champions environmental conservation through biodiversity efforts. The garden, crafted using 90% reclaimed materials, serves as a touching memorial to lost loved ones.

Bedfont^® encourages a healthy work-life balance and the Wellbeing Garden is a testament to this ethos, designed to provide employees with a serene and revitalising space to destress, recharge, and connect with nature. The garden’s carefully curated landscape also serves as a natural habitat for local flora and fauna, contributing to the preservation of local ecosystems, thanks to its variety of flowers and vegetables, and it even has a dedicated Bat box.

Managing Director, Jason Smith, remarks, “The Wellbeing Garden holds deep sentimental value as a memorial to lost loved ones, Niki and Pat. This garden was Niki’s dream and now it is a reality, underpinning the work she did promoting wellbeing for the Bedfont^® Family. Pat, a beloved member of the Bedfont^® Family and keen gardener, donated a lot of the greenery which now homes multiple ecosystems. Through this garden, not only does their memory live on, but it allows us to work towards our core value of being more Carbon Conscious, whilst providing a beautiful space for the Bedfont Family to promote wellbeing.”

Bedfont^® extends its gratitude to the grant providers, Beyond Procurement, whose support made this visionary project a reality. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing a culture that prioritises employee welfare and environmental responsibility.

Bedfont^® Scientific Ltd. helps fundraising reach £1000 for Cancer Research UK

Local Med-tech company, Bedfont^® Scientific Ltd., is proudly donating £200 to support the noble fundraising efforts of its employees, the Bedfont^® Family, who ran the Pretty Muddy 5K Obstacle Course on Saturday 1^st July 2023, for Cancer Research UK. So far, the team have raised an inspiring £800 towards cancer research initiatives, meaning with Bedfont’s Donation the fundraising will reach an impressive £1000.

According to WHO, nearly every family globally is affected by cancer; 1 in 5 people are diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime, and the diagnosis affects the health and well-being of all those involved, including family members and caregivers¹.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont^®, explained, “Our Bedfont^® Family has very recently been affected by cancer and it has been a really difficult year for so many of us. I am inspired by the willpower of the Pretty Muddy runners, and wish to also contribute to a cause close to all of our hearts.”

The funds raised through this run will be directed to Cancer Research UK, to help groundbreaking cancer research and patient support. To donate, please visit: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved/donate

References:

1. Amplifying the lived experience of people affected by cancer [Internet]. World Health Organization; [cited 2023 Jul 3]. Available from: https://www.who.int/activities/amplifying-the-lived-experience-of-people-affected-by-cancer

Med-tech manufacturer, Bedfont® Scientific Ltd., launches new CELLER8® PEMF device with exclusive distributor, NewMed Ltd. at the Health Optimisation Summit 2023

Bedfont®, a leading innovator in medical devices with over 40 years of manufacturing experience, proudly announces the launch of a new PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) device, CELLER8®. With NewMed Ltd. as the global exclusive distributor, the CELLER8® was introduced at the Health Optimisation Summit 2023.

CELLER8® harnesses the power of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy, using the earth’s natural magnetic waves to concentrate and send electromagnetic pulses to specific areas of the body. The underlying principle of PEMF therapy is that it aims to restore balance by supporting healthy cellular function, promoting circulatory wellness, and supporting overall health and wellness.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont®, comments, “With over 40 years of manufacturing experience from Bedfont®, and NewMed’s PEMF knowledge, we’ve combined our joint expertise and passion for driving innovation to develop a PEMF device with the user in mind. This summit is the ideal location to launch CELLER8® as the summit focuses on everything in the general health, wellbeing, nutrition, biohacking and fitness worlds.”

Andy Smith, Managing Director at NewMed, adds, “Having benefited from PEMF therapy myself, I founded NewMed to help others learn about and experience this life changing technology. I’m proud to say we’re the one-stop-shop for PEMF devices, and we’re excited to be launching the CELLER8® – it’s compact, sleek, and powerful – perfect for individuals seeking natural, non-invasive, solutions to enhance their overall health and well-being.”

The CELLER8® was launched at the Health Optimisation Summit, which took place 17th – 18th June, at the Business Design Centre, London. Visit http://www.celler8.com for more information.

Med-tech company, Bedfont®, has received the highest accolade for their workplace initiatives

In just under 6 months, Kent County Council has presented Bedfont® with the highest award possible for promoting a positive work environment, a healthy work/life balance, and showing its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

After joining the Healthy Workplace Programme last year, in October Bedfont® announced it had received 3 awards for their efforts to create a positive workplace environment. Now in just under 6 months, Bedfont® has excelled in building new initiatives and putting the wellbeing of employees at the forefront of the business, resulting in being rewarded with the Platinum status.

The programme, funded by the KCC and Medway Council, helps to support health and wellbeing at work with relevant policies, training and guidance⁽¹⁾. Recent studies have shown that those with a healthy work/life balance have more motivation and are more productive at work⁽²⁾.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont®, remarks, “I’m over the moon with having achieved the Platinum award in just under 6 months! It’s really great to be recognised for the efforts we are making to make Bedfont® a great and innovative place to work. Although this might be the highest achievement, there is always more we can do to improve; I look forward to the Bedfont® Family rising to the next challenge as we continue to grow.”

The Kent and Medway awards team, comments, “This award is the highest level of achievement within the programme and highlights Bedfont® Scientific’s commitment as a responsible business in the local community. Although it can be difficult to suggest improvements and progression for a business that works at the Platinum level, Bedfont® should be very proud of their work around health and wellbeing as they have implemented many great initiatives and ensure to maintain their current culture.”

References:

1. Council M. Healthy workplace programme [Internet]. Healthy Workplace Programme | Medway Council. [cited 2023Mar16]. Available from: https://www.medway.gov.uk/healthyworkplace

2. 10 statistics on work-life balance that May surprise you (2023) [Internet]. Apollo Technical LLC. 2023 [cited 2023Mar16]. Available from: https://www.apollotechnical.com/statistics-on-work-life-balance/