A joint report by Business in the Community and EMCOR UK proposes ways to enhance workplace wellbeing.
- The report advocates for equal importance of mental and physical health in the workplace.
- A focus is placed on collaborative and individual approaches to job roles and wellbeing.
- EMCOR UK introduces a Mental Health Charter promoting open discussion of mental health issues.
- Senior business leaders see this as an opportunity to reimagine workplace wellbeing post-pandemic.
A collaborative initiative between Business in the Community and EMCOR UK, alongside other key stakeholders, has resulted in a pivotal report aimed at transforming workplace wellbeing. This comprehensive document outlines strategies for employers to integrate practices that prioritise employee health, by treating mental health on par with physical health, which is vital in contemporary work environments.
The report further highlights the necessity for a collaborative, individual approach to job roles. It prompts businesses to foster relationships between employees and managers that encourage open dialogue. Notably, the document puts forth two significant calls to action: treating mental health and safety akin to physical health and safety, and enabling employees to create ‘good jobs’ within the confines of organisational structures.
Addressing the prevalent mental health challenges, research featured in the report notes that 41% of employees have developed work-related mental health issues in the past year. Recognising this, EMCOR UK established its Mental Health Charter in 2021, designed to dismantle stigma and promote inclusivity. The charter is structured around crucial business pledges, such as promoting an open culture, active listening, and empathy, which are complemented by individual employee pledges.
Concrete actions stemming from the Charter include training over 150 managers and supervisors in resilience and mental health awareness. Additional initiatives like the ‘This is me’ campaign, where a green ribbon is worn as a symbol of mental health support, have also been implemented. These actions reflect a broader organisational commitment to nurturing a supportive work environment.
Testimonials from key figures underscore the significance of this report. Jonathan Gawthrop of EMCOR UK and Louise Aston from Business in the Community stressed the importance of collective responsibility in improving workplace mental health. They emphasised that transformative change is achievable only when all stakeholders are actively engaged.
Peter Cheese of CIPD praised the report for highlighting the strategic need for workplace wellbeing. He emphasised the role of senior leaders in visibly committing to health initiatives and stressed the importance of creating supportive work cultures.
David Oldfield of Lloyds Banking Group reflected on the pandemic’s impact on work dynamics, noting the newfound opportunity for more inclusive and individualised approaches to work. He advocated for parity between mental and physical health in workplace policies.
The report serves as a comprehensive guide for employers to foster an inclusive and healthy work environment.
