Moving Beyond Tick-Box Wellbeing – A Strategic Approach with Elliot Foster

In the latest episode of The HR & Wellbeing Insider Podcast, I sat down with Elliot Foster, Head of Workplace Wellbeing Strategy at SuperWellness, to talk about prevention, strategy, and why wellbeing needs to move far beyond awareness days.

Elliot’s journey into wellbeing is as inspiring as it is unusual – starting out in animal biology before shifting into business psychology, and eventually leading wellbeing initiatives in the NHS, local government, and now in the private sector. His varied career gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing workplace wellbeing leaders today.

Wellbeing Strategy – More Than a Buzzword

Elliot points out that “strategy” is often thrown around without much clarity. For him, a true wellbeing strategy means being data-driven, evidence-led, and aligned to the wider business plan. Without this, initiatives risk becoming short-lived or disconnected from organisational goals.

The Prevention Gap

Too many organisations still treat wellbeing as a reactive measure – offering EAPs or events once issues arise. Elliot argues prevention must be central: “If you only ever signpost to an EAP, you’re catching people once they’re already unwell.” By focusing on drivers such as poor line management, lack of development, or disengagement, companies can create healthier, more productive workplaces.

From Awareness Days to Impact

While awareness days have their place, Elliot warns against mistaking a calendar of events for a strategy. Instead, they should be guided by employee data and organisational need. Without this, wellbeing can drift into what Elliot calls “wellbeing washing” – performative activity with little real impact.

Supporting the Wellbeing Lead

Many wellbeing roles are bolted onto HR or people functions, leaving professionals isolated and under-resourced. Elliot emphasises the importance of supporting these leaders with evidence, training, and peer networks – giving them the tools to deliver real change.

Practical Takeaways for HR Leaders

For HR and wellbeing leads looking to reset, Elliot suggests:

• Start with data – review engagement surveys, absence data, EAP usage, or simply ask staff directly.

• Align with business goals – wellbeing must support the wider organisational strategy.

• Plan ahead – avoid the January rush by preparing months in advance.

• Evaluate often – pause, review, and adjust rather than sticking rigidly to a plan.

As Elliot concludes: “If you start with data, you can’t go far wrong.”

This episode is packed with practical advice and fresh thinking for anyone shaping wellbeing in their organisation.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation by clicking below.

Want to know more or would like to chat all things workplace wellbeing? DM me.

Best Regards,

Paul

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