Making a commitment to mental health at work

This framework provides employers with a roadmap, or set of actions, to enhance mental health outcomes for practitioners.  It comprises six standards:

• Prioritise mental health: Develop and implement a systematic, long-term programme of activity to support mental health in the workplace

• Optimise work design and organisational culture: Proactively shape work design and organisational culture to drive positive mental health cultures. Clearly articulate expectations for employees and establish how and when these expectations should be met.

• Promote an open culture about mental health: Introduce mechanisms for open conversations at all levels.  Encourage an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking support if they are facing challenges. As mentioned above, leaders should serve as role models for openly discussing stress and mental health.

• Build organisational confidence and capability: Ensure that people at all levels within the organisation understand their role in building a positive wellbeing culture and feel supported in fulfilling it.

• Provide mental health tools and support:  Ensure employees are aware of the mental health support available and encourage them to utilise these resources.

• Enhance transparency and accountability: Recognise the importance of factors such as wellbeing, engagement, and retention in sustaining high-quality practice and outcomes for people using services

More information on the Mental Health at Work Commitment can be found here.

Developing a calendar of campaigns and events aligned with national wellbeing initiatives is a strategic approach to maintaining a workplace culture focused on wellbeing. Examples include National Stress Awareness Day, Mental Health Awareness Week, National Work-Life Week, World Mental Health Day, Anti-bullying Week, and National Self-Care Week.

Other initiatives, such as National Inclusion Week and International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, can be marked by events that focus on how inclusion, diversity, equity and equality can improve workplace wellbeing.

It is essential to actively involve a diverse group of employees in planning these initiatives, fostering a sense of engagement and ownership in promoting workplace wellbeing. Information on these initiatives can be found here.