Transitions to health: Impact through planning, policy and investment

These vital spaces have been the first targets of cuts in a nation that favours age over youth – despite being the remedy for blights such as social division, polarisation and loneliness, says Guardian columnist John Harris

Study looks at how workouts can help those with hip, knee and back pain – and benefit UK economy to tune of £34bn People with sore joints who exercise for two hours a week have less pain, visit their GP less and take less sick leave, a study has found. The findings are from an analysis of how 40,000 people in Greater Manchester with hip, back or knee pain fared when they did two one-hour exercise classes for 12 weeks. Had on average 35% less pain. Went to see their GP 29% less often. Took almost half as many sick days from work. Needed their family to look after them 21% less. Continue reading...

British companies are trialling no-shoes policies as a way to improve focus, comfort and morale – but not everyone is convinced Slippers, socks and the occasional novelty toe warmer are fast becoming part of the office dress code for startups hoping to ease stress and boost creativity. It might sound like a gimmick conjured up during a yoga retreat, but asking staff to leave their shoes at the door taps into something more serious: how to make the workplace feel a little less like work. Continue reading...