The charity surveyed hundreds of commuters this month and is appealing to Merseyside employers to support their employees during the current tough economic climate.

“Studies have clearly shown that where employers encourage their staff to take a proper lunch break away from their desk productivity is increased.” Merseyside CALM co-ordinator Simon Howes said. “With over 45 million working days lost each year due to anxiety and stress, there has never been a better time for employers to support their staff and reap the benefits.”

In addition, results have shown 54% of those surveyed are eating lunches that they consider to be unhealthy and 22% are taking less than half an hour for lunch.

“We’re particularly concerned at this time, that hundreds of SME’s and companies on Merseyside who employ our target audience of young men aged 15-35, are unaware of the advantages that can come from putting in place simple things such as healthy food options and time away from your desk,” adds Simon.

With this in mind, C.A.L.M organised a consciousness raising event with support from Voodou hair/shave stylists, Brew tea shop and Another Media, which encouraged local workers to find out more about ways they can improve the healthiness of their lunch break. Nutritional therapist Helen Turner, who specialises in reducing stress through diet and nutrition at her private practices on Rodney Street and Ark at the Radisson in Liverpool, also supported the event.

The national charity C.A.L.M has provided thousands of people on Merseyside with advice and support since their launch on Merseyside almost 9 years ago.

To assist employers CALM has offered to send out packs of materials and information to local companies that can be used to support staff.

Contact CALM’s Merseyside Coordinator, Simon Howes by dropping him an email – simply click here.

Photo by Robert Banh