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Wellbeing on Wheels: supporting NHS staff, one stop at a time

Finding time to step away during a busy working day isn’t always easy for NHS staff. That’s why, with the help of our supporters, we brought wellbeing support directly to them, creating a space to rest and recharge.

Bringing wellbeing on the road

Whether delivering care on the frontline or supporting services behind the scenes, the pace can sometimes make it difficult to step away.

Building on the Trust’s ongoing commitment to staff wellbeing, we funded the WOW Bus (Wellbeing on Wheels): a welcoming, mobile space designed to reach staff at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust wherever they are. Shaped by staff feedback and insights, the bus connected with teams across a wide range of roles and settings. 

Over the course of a week, the WOW Bus visited five sites across the Trust, connecting with more than 500 colleagues, including teams based in Milton Keynes. For many, stepping on board offered a valuable opportunity: a chance to switch off and recharge.

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Wow Bus Mk Staff On Top Desk Massage Chairs

A space to recharge

Inside, the bus offered a calm, welcoming space away from busy environments. Staff could enjoy a hot or cold drink, take a break and spend a few minutes focusing on their own wellbeing. Back and foot massages helped ease tension, while books and resources supported relaxation and mindfulness.

“It was amazing. I was feeling quite stressed, so coming onto the bus for a massage, a cup of tea and a chance to relax was very important for me.”

Community Mental Health Nurse

Others spoke about how the space brought people together, creating opportunities to connect with colleagues they might not usually see, while offering a simple but meaningful pause in the day.

Why it matters

Moments like these matter. They give NHS staff the chance to rest, reset and feel valued for the work they do.

Thanks to our supporters, initiatives like the WOW Bus are helping us find new ways to support the wellbeing of the people who care for patients and keep services running every day.

Inside the WOW Bus

Take a look inside the space created for staff to pause, recharge and connect.

Riverside Wow Bus Two Staff Members Landscape 2
Wow Bus Mk Staff Top Deck Landscape
Riverside Student Nurses Landscape
Wow Bus Mk Letihogonolo Madakiwe Landscape
Riverside Wow Bus Downstairs Landscape
Wow Bus Northwick Park Talha Landscape
Riverside Wow Bus Staff On Top Deck
Wow Bus St Charles Group Photo
Riverside Wow Bus Tala Landscape
Wow Bus Northwick Park Staff On Top Deck 7 Landscape

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Share your story

Have you been supported by CNWL NHS Foundation Trust, taken part in a fundraiser, or benefited from one of our charity-funded projects? If so, we’d love to hear your story! Whether you’re a patient, staff member, or supporter, your experience could inspire others and show the powerful impact of our work.

Tell us about your story

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