Sligo University Hospital Launches ‘Take the Stairs’ Campaign to Promote Everyday Physical Activity
Sligo University Hospital (SUH) is encouraging staff, patients, and visitors to make simple changes that can improve their health and wellbeing through the launch of its new “Take the Stairs” campaign.
The initiative coincides with the start of the HSE’s Steps to Health Challenge and is designed to promote increased physical activity across the hospital campus. By encouraging people to choose the stairs over lifts whenever possible, the campaign aims to reinforce the message that even small amounts of daily movement can deliver meaningful health benefits.
The campaign aligns with the National Physical Activity Guidelines and the “Every Move Counts” message, which highlights the importance of incorporating movement into everyday routines. Health experts continue to emphasise that regular physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining physical health, improving mental wellbeing, and reducing the risk of a range of chronic illnesses.
As part of the initiative, SUH has installed dedicated “Take the Stairs” feature walls in lift lobbies throughout the hospital. Informative displays and infographics have also been placed in the hospital canteen to highlight the benefits of stair climbing and other forms of everyday activity.
The educational materials focus on both the physical and mental health advantages of choosing the stairs. They also include practical guidance on safe stair use, information about local walking routes, and signposts to HSE exercise resources that can help people become more active.
Morna O’Hanlon, Health Promotion and Improvement Officer at SUH, said the campaign is designed to encourage people to recognise the value of small lifestyle changes.
“Our Take the Stairs Campaign reinforces the message that any physical activity is better than none and that small changes like taking the stairs can positively impact both physical and mental health,” she said.
“Creating a supportive environment is key to promoting health behaviour change and we hope that highlighting the health benefits of physical activity, as well as signposting to the Every Move Counts Guidelines, local walking routes and HSE Exercise resources, will encourage more individuals to make every move count.”
The campaign reflects a growing focus within healthcare settings on creating environments that actively support healthier choices. Hospitals are increasingly recognising the role they can play in promoting wellness not only for patients but also for staff and visitors.
For many people, finding time for dedicated exercise can be challenging. Health professionals note that incorporating movement into everyday activities—such as taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking short distances, or choosing active travel options—can help individuals gradually increase their activity levels without making major changes to their daily schedules.
Assistant Hospital Manager Georgina Kilcoyne shared her own experience of adopting the habit of taking the stairs whenever possible.
“I’ve started taking the stairs whenever I can and I really notice the difference in my day-to-day energy,” she said.
“Even small bursts of activity give me more focus at work and help me feel healthier overall. It’s amazing how something so simple can have such a big impact.”
Her comments reflect one of the key themes of the campaign: that physical activity does not need to be intense or time-consuming to be beneficial. Small, consistent actions can contribute to improved fitness, increased energy levels, and better overall wellbeing.
The information displays installed across the hospital also highlight the Every Move Counts Guidelines and direct people to the newly launched HSE Get Active Programme. The programme is designed to support individuals who want to increase their physical activity levels and develop healthier habits over time.
According to healthcare professionals, even brief periods of movement can produce positive effects. Research has shown that regular activity can improve circulation, support heart health, boost mood, and enhance mental wellbeing.
Rachel Wirtz, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist at SUH, emphasised that physical activity should be viewed as an achievable goal for everyone, regardless of fitness level.
“Being active isn’t just for exercise enthusiasts—it’s about creating habits that support long-term health,” she said.
“Every step counts. Even small bouts of movement can improve mood, circulation and overall wellbeing.”
The campaign represents a collaborative effort involving several departments within the hospital. It has been developed through partnership between the SUH Health Promotion Department, Physiotherapy Department and Hospital Management.
Additional support has been provided by the SUH Healthy Ireland Implementation Group, with funding made available through Healthy Ireland Health and Wellbeing funding initiatives.
Hospital representatives hope the campaign will encourage people to think differently about opportunities for movement throughout the day. By making healthier choices more visible and accessible, the initiative seeks to create a culture where physical activity becomes a natural part of everyday life.
As healthcare providers continue to promote preventative health measures, campaigns such as “Take the Stairs” demonstrate how simple behavioural changes can contribute to better health outcomes. The message behind the initiative is straightforward: every movement matters, and every step taken today can contribute to improved health in the future.
Readers looking for additional guidance on increasing their physical activity levels can access exercise advice, activity programmes and practical resources through the HSE’s exercise and wellbeing services.
