10 Years with Darke & TayloR

A huge thank you to everyone at Darke & Taylor!

This year marks a very special milestone – 10 incredible years of providing health, fitness and adventure services to your amazing team.

It feels like just yesterday we embarked on this journey and I'm proud of everything we've accomplished together.
Over the past decade, we've shared countless adventures, explored stunning trails and celebrated numerous personal achievements.
From early morning on the water, to after work spinning to challenging team-building events and much, much more.

It's been a privilege to witness your dedication, resilience and unwavering support for one another.

I've seen firsthand how you prioritise health and well-being for all the staff, that has not only transformed individual lives but also strengthened the bonds within your company.

It's been more than just exercise; it's been about embracing a sense of community, encouraging people to have a go and creating lasting memories. I'm deeply thankful for the trust you've placed in me over the years.

I'm truly passionate about continuing to support Darke & Taylor in its commitment to employee well-being.

Here's to the next 10 years of health, fitness, adventure and shared success as we adapt and pivot for the next generation coming through!

Thank you for being such an inspiring and supportive business, always supporting me along the way.

If you are not sure who the multiple award winning Darke & Taylor are, please check them out here.

One final question from me,
Do you know any forward-thinking, award-winning businesses (like these) that might be keen to change how they look after their greatest asset – the people?
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If so, please let me know.

Ben

A few words from Simon Newton, MD

At Darke & Taylor, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset.

We're committed to creating a workplace where our team feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive both personally and professionally.

That's why we've partnered with Project Active for the 10th year to provide comprehensive wellness solutions that encompass team building, fitness, adventure, and overall well-being. And it's not just any provider – it's Ben from Project Active that makes all the difference.

Beyond the Traditional: Team Building with Impact – Led by Ben's Expertise.
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We understand that strong teams are built on more than just shared tasks. Project Active, under Ben's guidance, goes beyond traditional team building, offering dynamic experiences that foster genuine connection and collaboration. Ben's unique approach and personal investment in our team's success are what truly set Project Active apart.
He takes the time to understand our specific needs and tailors the activities to maximise their impact.

We have engaged Ben and offered to our staff:
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• National Three Peaks challenge
• Numerous Yorkshire Three Peaks challenges
• Brecon Beacons hikes
• Obstacle races 
• In-house spinning classes
• Group mountain bike rides
• Online seminars/talks
• Online fitness classes
• Subsidies for all staff for other Project Active services

For 2025, we are also launching a new programme for all our newly starting apprentices.

The benefits Project Active programmes, led by Ben, bring to us are:

Enhanced Communication: Activities encourage active listening, clear communication, and constructive feedback, breaking down barriers and building team trust. Ben's facilitation skills ensure that these crucial conversations happen organically and effectively. He understands the nuances of group dynamics and gently guides participants to communicate openly and respectfully.

Developed Problem-Solving Skills: Through engaging challenges and collaborative tasks, our teams learn to approach problems creatively and find solutions together. Ben's experience in designing these challenges ensures they are both fun and thought-provoking, pushing our team to think outside the box.

Strengthened Relationships: Project Active's programmes create a space for shared experiences and laughter, fostering camaraderie and a sense of belonging. Ben's personable nature and ability to connect with individuals on a personal level create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Building Trust and Strengthening Relationships: 'The Ben Factor'Trust is the bedrock of any high-performing team. Project Active's team-building activities, expertly crafted and facilitated by Ben, provide a platform for employees to connect on a personal level, build rapport, and develop mutual trust. It's not just the activities themselves, but Ben's ability to create a safe and supportive space for vulnerability and connection that makes all the difference. He fosters an atmosphere where individuals feel comfortable sharing, learning, and growing together.

Outdoor Health & Fitness: Ben's Passion, Our Team's Gain
We all know the impact and benefits of having a mentally strong and healthy team. It's a no-brainer for us all to join in! Ben's passion for outdoor activities is contagious. He motivates and inspires our team to embrace a healthy lifestyle, making fitness fun and accessible for everyone, regardless of their fitness level.

The Project Active Difference: Why Ben Matters
What truly sets Project Active apart is Ben himself. He's not just a facilitator; he's a partner in our team's development. His dedication, expertise, and genuine care for our employees make him an invaluable asset to our wellness programme. He understands our company culture and tailors his approach to meet our specific needs. It’s this personalised attention and commitment that makes our partnership with Project Active so successful.

At Darke & Taylor, we believe that investing in our company culture is an investment in our future. Over the years, Project Active's team-building & cohesion programmes, under Ben's expert guidance, have been instrumental in creating a collaborative, innovative, and supportive work environment where our team can thrive and our company can achieve its full potential.

We highly recommend Ben and Project Active for any organisation looking to invest in the well-being of their people.
 
 Thank you once again

Simon

Ben organised a fantastic event, a workplace away day in the Brecons, for our team.
The 22-mile hike was a real challenge but an outstanding achievement for our team (and me).

The whole weekend was excellent from start to finish!

​ - Lucy Oliver

I attended my first Darke & Taylor Yorkshire 3 Peaks trip at the weekend, which was a great success.

Ben took care of all the organising and issued plenty of updates about the trip & what to bring in plenty of time.

Before we headed out, we had a decent brief from Ben on ‘Do’s & Dont’s’, so we were fully prepared for what endured.

Having someone so experienced on this particular trip helped as Ben could answer any questions that we had.

Accommodation was perfect & well located, plus great weather helped for a great trip!

Put your name down if you are thinking about doing something like this.

Back three days, and Legs feel normal!

I highly recommend Ben all the way.
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 - Dan Wotten

May Day Paddleboard into Oxford - What a great way to start May.

​Thank you Ben.
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 - Heather Eustice

Fully recommend Ben at Project Active if you are looking to gain some goals whether personal or as a team, I have just completed the Yorkshire 3 peaks with Ben who organised, motivated and guided us through the challenge. Thank you for the opportunity and your help in making this experience so enjoyable.

Would certainly look at doing another challenge under the guidance of Project Active.
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 - Stuart McNaughton

Just come back from an absolutely brilliant (but very hard) weekend in Yorkshire with Ben doing the 3 Peaks. Superbly organised and Ben was full of encouragement the whole way round.

Very professional and highly recommended.

Thanks Ben

 - Stephen Fifield

I cannot recommend Ben / Project Active enough.
Just completed the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge with Ben's help.

His guidance, drive and management have motivated me to attend his excellent weekly spinning classes for 2ish years and the results have been life changing.........

Getting ready for the next, and hopefully many more Project Active Challenges.......
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 - Guy Holmes

I have been utilising Ben from Project Active for spinning, corporate wellness and his events for the last ten years,

I have just spent the day with Ben and fellow clients in the Malvern Hills. As always, it was a well-run, professional event!

 - Mark Swadling

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