Greater Manchester pioneer’s world-first wellbeing series to unite workforces

Greater Manchester is once again leading the way in innovation and collaboration, this time in the world of workplace wellbeing.

Launching today (13 November 2025), the GM Wellbeing Series marks a world first in mass-participation events designed to tackle workplace stress, burnout and loneliness.

With a mission of “Workforce Wellbeing for All,” the series features two flagship events taking place in 2026, both focused on improving mental, physical and social health across the region’s workforce.

The GM Wellbeing Series Run & Walk will be held at Heaton Park on 21 May 2026, offering a 5.5K run and a 2K walk designed for participants of all fitness levels. Later in the year, on 22 October 2026, the Greater Manchester Meditation event will invite workers from every corner of the city-region to take part in a virtual guided meditation, using science to show how just three minutes of calm can improve focus and attention.

Organisations of all sizes are invited to register their teams, with the events promising to foster healthier employees, stronger companies and a more resilient Greater Manchester.

Nick Rusling, the founder of GM Wellbeing Series and a veteran of major sporting and wellbeing initiatives, including his previous roles as owner of the Manchester Marathon and CEO of IMG and ASO (owners of the Tour de France), said the region was the perfect place for such a pioneering initiative.

“Greater Manchester was selected for this UK-first series because the region leads when it comes to genuine collaboration and setting global standards for workplace wellbeing,” Rusling said.

“Having been involved in mass-participation events for decades, I’ve seen the incredible energy they create. We face a systemic challenge with workplace burnout that requires a holistic solution. By combining the communal joy of running and walking with the performance-enhancing benefits of mindfulness, we can help Manchester’s workforce not just cope but thrive.”

The GM Wellbeing Series hopes to shifts focus from crisis to prevention, empowering people to live happier, healthier lives at any age. Official charity partner Forever Manchester will also benefit, supporting community connections across Greater Manchester.

The Greater Manchester Wellbeing Series has also become a wellbeing partner of The Tour, a popular running event spanning Tameside, Oldham and Glossop, organised by Not Really Here Media Group.

Rusling added: “At the Greater Manchester Wellbeing Series we’re identifying local events to recommend for teams of colleagues who want to keep running together and build on those benefits. The Tour has the right people behind it, from the legacy of Dr Ron Hill to the current Not Really Here team, who truly care about the runners. Get stuck in.”

The GM Wellbeing Series will also support the Tameside and Glossop Business Awards, celebrating organisations that champion workplace wellbeing.

“Business is the sum of many parts, but the most important part is our people,” Rusling said. “I’m delighted to be part of these amazing awards that celebrate business across Tameside and Oldham, particularly those who demonstrate genuine care for their workforce.”

The initiative has drawn widespread support from across Greater Manchester’s civic leadership.

Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "This is a really exciting programme that shows the power of putting wellbeing front and centre. It's a brilliant opportunity to bring our workforce together, to feel proud of the organisations we work for and of our city, while embracing wellbeing in a simple and inclusive way. At its heart, this aligns with Manchester's ambition to be greener, fairer and more inclusive, supporting initiatives that drive real change in people's behaviour."

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “The Greater Manchester Wellbeing Series is a flagship demonstration that we care about our workforce and our communities. It’s about prevention, not just cure - creating a culture where people look after their mental and physical health together.

“Wellbeing shouldn’t be a privilege; it should be something everyone can take part in. The Series gives every organisation, large or small, the chance to make movement and mindfulness part of everyday life. When our workforce thrives, so does Greater Manchester - economically, socially and emotionally.”

For more information and to register your organisation’s participation, visit www.gmwellbeingseries.com.

Credit: Greater Manchester Wellbeing Series