Mental wellbeing in the workplace - improve your bottom line

Welcome and Structure of the session Introduction- Bill Dixon, Leader of Darlington Borough Council. Background and proposal -Catherine Parker, Public Health Portfolio Lead. Group discussion facilitated by Katie Blundell, Darlington Cares Programme Manager and Seth Pearson, Darlington Partnership Director.

Why Mental Health in the Workplace? Good business sense- there is a clear link between mental health, productivity and absence. Making work accessible gives employers the best choice of candidates. A common problem- 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their life. A costly problem – Work related costs of mental ill health are estimated at £30billion in England. A legal requirement – mental illness is covered by the Equality Act 2010.

The Proposal Facilitated peer support model Through Darlington Cares board- HR volunteers based on corporate social responsibility. Specific mental health expertise from with local NHS and voluntary sector. A “Toolkit” of training and resources. Matched with local employers.

The “Toolkit” Time to change National Anti stigma campaign Free online mental wellbeing tool and app National Mind guides Mindful employer- A National Framework The North East Better Health at Work award Mental Health First Aid Training for listeners Open access talking therapy services

The Offer Named HR advisor and bespoke agreed support package Signposting to local support Access to online portal with suite of resources Free/Subsidised training e.g. MHFA Local mark of recognition……. Improved mental wellbeing, Improved productivity?, Reduced turn over?, Reduced sickness absence?

Group Discussion