Stagecoach’s Sunderland depot has been recognised for its sustained commitment to employee wellbeing after securing multiple honours at the Better Health at Work Awards.
At a ceremony held on 12 March at the Stadium of Light, the depot received the Continuing Excellence award — one of the programme’s highest distinctions — alongside a Special Recognition accolade highlighting its progress over the last year.
The Better Health at Work scheme includes more than 400 organisations across the North East and Cumbria and recognises employers that take a structured and proactive approach to workforce wellbeing. Achieving Continuing Excellence status requires a rolling three-year strategy and the delivery of at least five workplace campaigns each year.
Stagecoach says the Sunderland depot has consistently met those requirements, backed by a programme of initiatives that span physical, mental and financial health.
Initiatives such as on-site health checks, vaccinations, financial and mental wellbeing sessions and campaigns have been delivered with a range of external partners such as health providers, financial organisations and community groups, while the depot has undertaken fundraising events in partnership with local charities.
The Sunderland team has also organised events in partnership with Age UK, and raised £12,500 for Oasis Community Housing through sponsored five-a-side football.
Further recognition came with Driving Excellence Lead Trainer Michael Emmet (pictured) being named Health Advocate of the Year 2026 for his contribution to promoting wellbeing across the business. “At Sunderland, we believe excellence goes beyond operations: it’s about supporting our people, their wellbeing and the communities we serve,” he says. “Over the past year, we’ve worked closely with partners to bring vital health and financial support directly into the workplace, making it easier for colleagues to access the help they need.
