A ‘HEALTH in Business’ programme was launched last week to encourage Warrington businesses to promote staff health and wellbeing.

Almost 100 businesses were welcomed by council chief executive Professor Steven Broomhead at the event in Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Members were told that good employer practices could reduce staff sickness, increase productivity and benefit the local economy.

A report by Price Waterhouse Cooper found that there is a 100 per cent return on investment in raising health awareness.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin said: “This summit is the first of its kind in Warrington and we were really pleased with the response from businesses.

“We hope this is the start of an ongoing conversation for health and business prosperity in the town.”

Experts lead workshops to advise employers on workplace wellbeing and the programme is set to continue into 2017.