Better Touch: Empowering Well-being and Equal Opportunity Through Massage Therapy

In a world where well-being and equality in the workplace are gaining increasing attention, organizations like Better Touch are paving the way for innovative solutions. We had the privilege of interviewing Elvis, the founder of BetterTouch, a unique company that provides on-site massage therapy services delivered by blind and visually impaired professionals. Their mission goes beyond well-being; it aims to address the challenges that blind and visually impaired individuals face in accessing employment opportunities. In this interview, we delve into the inspiring story behind Better Touch and explore the significant impact it has on both businesses and the lives of visually impaired individuals.

1. Can     you tell us more about the mission and vision behind Better Touch? How did     the idea for this unique initiative come about?

Our motivation is two-fold. Fundamentally to raise awareness of this under-represented group in the workplace and also to address a growing decline in mental health, even more so now post Covid and the current economic crisis. Thankfully more companies are addressing this and provide a programme of support for their staff, but there are still plenty that don’t do enough. There is also a lack of understanding around how corporations can accommodate those with disabilities, whether it’s to deliver our massage therapy services or as an employee. So, our aim is to educate and enable, on both sides.

The idea came about after talking to colleagues in Asia, where the use of blind and visually impaired people for corporate therapy is very common and successful. We couldn’t see anyone else doing this in the UK and wanted to plug such a worthwhile gap that not only helps people at work, but also supports disabled people in accessing work. All whilst shining a spotlight on an important issue ,in corporate communities that can make a difference.

2. Massage     therapy provided by blind and visually impaired professionals is a     distinctive approach. What inspired you to create an organization that not     only promotes well-being but also provides equal employment opportunities?

Having met a number of blind and visually impaired therapists, we were inspired by their talent, dedication and commitment and wanted to do something to help lift the barriers they face. When it comes to hiring a disabled person, I think there is some resistance, a lack of understanding and even fear for employers - whether that’s based on cultural or practical reasons (such as insurance). We want to help to reduce those fears and change perceptions. There is also a lot of support out there, for both employers and blind people and we want to make sure this is being utilised.

3. Could     you share some insights into the training and certification process for     the therapists at Better Touch? How do you ensure the high quality of your     services?

All our therapists hold an ITEC level 3 in Massage and Complimentary Therapies. Most of them have qualified from the Royal National College for the Blinds.

4. Many     businesses are now focusing on employee well-being and mental health. How     do Better Touch's services contribute to supporting the well-being of     employees in the workplace?

Providing on-site massage not only demonstrates an employer’s commitment to the health and well-being of their workforce, it directly addresses the causes of low productivity, reducing overall business costs. Even a 15 minute seated chair massage can ease back issues, depression, anxiety and many more causes that lead to absenteeism and presenteeism.

5. Could     you elaborate on the positive impact Better Touch has had on both     businesses and the blind and visually impaired individuals you work with? 

Better Touch provides a service that addresses both the needs of UK businesses and their workforce, together with the growing challenge that blind and visually impaired people face today when trying to access employment. There are over 2 million people in the UK living with sight loss and we are passionate about supporting blind and visually impaired people in gaining access to work more easily, promoting diversity and equality in the workplace.

6. Promoting     diversity and equality in the workplace is a crucial aspect of Better     Touch's mission. Can you share some success stories or examples of how     your organization has helped bridge employment gaps for blind and visually     impaired individuals?

Only 27% of working age blind or partially sighted people are in work, compared to 51% of disabled people and 75% of the general population. Better Touch is entirely devoted to reduce these gaps and as we launch, we hope to share some great success stories!

7. What     challenges have you faced while implementing this unique business model,     and how did you overcome them?

As every new business, one of the biggest challenges is to make people aware of it. Promoting a business is not an easy task. We have got to also educate clients on why what we do is important in many ways and benefits different parties. Being part ofThe HR Innovator is a great opportunity to market our business.

8. Massage   therapy is known for its health and wellness benefits. How do you see this   type of therapy evolving and being integrated into workplace wellness   programs in the future?

Since the pandemic, a report by Deloitte in 2022 revealed that mental health and wellbeing in the workplace has declined, leading to a 25% cost increase to UK employers vs 2019 - an average return of £5 for every £1 invested in measures that tackle the problem. More and more companies realize the importance of looking after their staff, enabling them to find the right work-life balance, offering them abetter work environment.

9. What     advice do you have for other businesses looking to incorporate social     impact and equal opportunity initiatives into their operations?

Start now! There are so many communities being disadvantaged – we can all play a part in making sure we are more inclusive and helping one another.

10. Looking     ahead, what are Better Touch's future goals and initiatives? How do you     envision the organization's growth and impact in the years to come?

Better Touch aims at being a reference in terms of diverse and inclusive company. We want to be able to create as many work opportunities as possible for communities who are being disregarded and to support younger generations with studying and entering professional life.

[Register for the upcoming HR Innovator Conference inDecember Today]

Better Touch's innovative approach to promoting well-being and equal opportunity is a shining example of how businesses can make a positive impact on society. Their commitment to improving the lives of visually impaired individuals while providing exceptional wellness services underscores the importance of holistic employee support. As we look to the future, it's clear that initiatives likeBetter Touch are not only transforming the workplace but also creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.