- Date awarded: April 2026
- Location: Fife wide
Latest evaluation highlights lasting impact of charity-funded wellbeing programme.
Fife Health Charity is celebrating the success of its support for the wellbeing retreats programme after an independent evaluation revealed overwhelmingly positive outcomes for NHS Fife health and social care staff. The programme, delivered at Falkland Estate and led by NHS Fife, has provided staff with valuable time away from workplace pressures to focus on their wellbeing, resilience and self-care.
Between September 2023 and April 2026, 202 participants completed evaluation questionnaires following attendance at full-day and half-day retreats. The results demonstrate exceptionally high levels of satisfaction and impact. Participants rated the retreats an average of 6.59 out of 7 for improving their sense of wellbeing, while 98% said the learning would be either very helpful or quite helpful in their everyday lives.
The feedback reflects the significant difference the programme has made to staff wellbeing. Commonly used words to describe the experience included relaxed, happy, comfortable, positive, calm, grateful, empowered and valued.
The most important learning was the value of intentionally taking time to pause and care for our own wellbeing. The evaluation clearly demonstrates that providing staff with dedicated time and space to focus on their wellbeing can have a lasting and meaningful impact. It is encouraging to see participants taking practical learning back into their work and personal lives and sharing that knowledge with others.
The programme's benefits extend beyond those attending the retreats. Through the development of Wellbeing Champions and the sharing of learning across teams, the project is helping to create a wider culture of wellbeing across NHS Fife. Participants reported intentions to support colleagues, promote positive wellbeing practices and encourage healthier workplace cultures within their services.
The evaluation concludes that the programme has made a significant contribution to NHS Fife's commitment to supporting and valuing its workforce. By providing practical wellbeing skills, fostering resilience and creating opportunities for reflection and connection, the charity-funded initiative is helping staff feel more supported, empowered and able to continue delivering high-quality care to patients across Fife.
