THIS week, Donegal County Council officially launched its Health and Wellbeing Plan 2026–2029 at the annual Staff Walking Challenge prize giving event, bringing staff together to celebrate participation and the organisation’s ongoing commitment to workplace wellbeing.
The launch marks the Council’s second organisational Health and Wellbeing Plan and reflects a renewed commitment to supporting staff health across the organisation. The plan outlines a clear vision, with a focus on promotion, prevention and, ensuring that wellbeing remains a priority over the coming years.
Speaking at the event, Chief Executive John G. McLaughlin acknowledged the strong collective effort behind the development of the plan, highlighting the valuable contributions from staff across the organisation.
Mr McLaughlin said: “Our Health and Wellbeing Plan 2026–2029 reflects a shared commitment across Donegal County Council to support and promote the wellbeing of our staff. The strong engagement we are seeing, including through initiatives such as the Staff Walking Challenge, shows how embedded wellbeing has become within our organisation and the positive impact it can have on both individuals and the wider workplace.”
Now in its fifth year, the Staff Walking Challenge continues to support staff in incorporating physical activity into their daily routines. This year participants collectively walked over 7,500km, reflecting the strength of engagement from across the organisation.
The Plan also features a photograph submitted by staff member Michael Hirrell as part of the Walking Challenge, capturing the spirit of participation and wellbeing reflected in the initiative.
Congratulations were extended to all prize winners, with recognition that all participants benefit from taking part. Prizes, with a strong health and wellbeing theme, were sourced from local Donegal businesses, supporting the local economy.
The event concluded with the presentation of prizes, providing an opportunity to recognise the efforts of participants and to mark an important step in the continued promotion of staff health and wellbeing across Donegal County Council.