A NEW approach to supporting mental health in the workplace is needed say Warwickshire business leaders.
Health and wellbeing is the spotlight of a new report by Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP), which collects information from its business engagements as well as data from local authorities, the CWLEP and other organisations.
The report highlights a need for a complete overhaul, rather than a return to pre Covid-19 normality, which includes hybrid and flexible work patterns, so workers can socialise and have support in wider aspects of their lives.
The report, known as ‘SmartRegion’, also suggests businesses could become involved in the Thrive at Work programme, run by the West Midlands Combined Authority, which is a free wellbeing accreditation programme to support the health and wellbeing of employees.
Other programmes aimed at supporting wellbeing include the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot.
Coventry City Council has also launched a ‘Call to Action’ for employers across Coventry and Warwickshire to look at their working practices and take steps to improve health and wellbeing in their workforce.
Craig Humphrey, managing director of the CWLEP Growth Hub, said: “The importance of good mental health, often overlooked in the past, is rightly now being recognised by employers as contributing to high-quality work, improved productivity, and our economic recovery.
“There are some key factors that have caused people’s mental health and wellbeing to deteriorate during the pandemic including social isolation, jobs and financial loss, housing insecurity and quality, reduced access to mental health services, and working from home which has led to increased stress and anxiety for many people.
“The good news is that support is available to help employers, especially small business owners, and employees to manage their mental health and wellbeing.”
He is urging employers to make use of resources including from The Federation of Small Businesses, mental health charity Mind and the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot (MHPP)
He added: “HR professionals are currently being encouraged to take part in research by the MHPP to share their thoughts on how Covid-19 has affected long-term sick leave in workplaces, and to help inform future policy.
“There is a great deal of support available but it is important employers access it for the long-term health of their staff as well as their businesses.”
