A SERIES of new sponsors has been welcomed to the award category line-up for the Dorset Business Awards thanks to several new categories.

Two of the four new award categories introduced are the Dorset Environmental Award, sponsored by Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) and Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT), and the Employee Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by BWT Physio and Ouch Training Team.

Dorset’s eco-friendly businesses are being urged to put themselves forward for the Dorset Environmental Award, sponsored by PHC and DWT, which aims to recognise a business with an outstanding commitment to managing their environmental impact and Dorset’s natural capital. This includes carrying out actions to benefit wildlife and their habitats; reduce emissions, waste, or noise; improve raw material use or transport efficiency.

Simon Cripps, chief executive from DWT, said: “Environment is an important element of all businesses these days. DWT and PHC have sponsored this award to recognise and reward Dorset businesses that are making great strides to look after our county’s fabulous natural assets.”

BWT Physio and Ouch Training Team have joined forces to honour an employer leading in their commitment to the health and wellbeing of their workforce. The Employee Health and Wellbeing Award will recognise a business that empowers and supports its people to succeed by going above and beyond the legal requirements to meet the health and wellbeing needs of its employees.

Simon Cassin, director at Ouch Training Team, says: “Ouch Training Team is extremely proud to be sponsoring an award which recognises the importance of employee health and wellbeing. This award aligns with our organisation's values and aspirations. We are sure that the high profile of the Dorset Business Awards will inspire the businesses of the county to actively embrace the health and wellbeing of their employees, resulting in a better quality of life for them, their families and friends.”

Debbie Martin, clinical director from BWT Physio, added: “Caring employers understand wellbeing is more than just health and safety, it relates to lifestyle, how it fits within society and, crucially, how an employee feels at the end of their working day. We seek to highlight forward thinking employers who really do treat their staff as their greatest asset – with actions and words.”

In association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo, the Awards are also backed by the south’s leading radio station Wave 105 and are free to enter. Entrants can submit an entry via www.dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk. The closing date for entry is Friday August 3. Entry is open to all companies based in Dorset with a BH or DT postcode and entrants do not need to be a member of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

For further information about the Awards, sponsorship opportunities or to reserve tickets for the Gala Dinner which will take place at the Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday November 1 please contact the DBA team on 01202 714800.