Basildon Council has pledged its support to businesses in managing the impact of mental health on the workplace. One of the most effective ways of doing this is to establish a mentoring network such as that described in this article by The Career Café, that way staff are able to help and support one another, which can have a huge impact on confidence and enjoyment of a role. However, there are also a number of other options to try to see which works best for your business. Ensuring that employees work within a safe, spacious environment could be one of many ways to help to increase employee morale and promote wellbeing among company employees. Many commercial cleaning services could help companies maintain a clean working place for them and their employees, ensuring that they are happy within their roles and surroundings.
The Economic Development and Growth Committee last week (Thursday 28 February) endorsed a number of proposed actions to raise awareness of mental health issues, promote wellbeing and address barriers to profitability. They include distributing a report to local employers on the help available from voluntary and community sector organisations, and working with businesses to pilot initiatives such as mental health training. Case studies which showcase implemented practices and their positive outcomes will be shared amongst local businesses to enable inclusive growth and strengthen the economy.
Councillor Andrew Schrader, Chairman of the Economic Development and Growth Committee, said: “Research from The Centre for Mental Health shows that mental health related absence in the UK costs an average £1,300 per employee every single year. This suggests that the annual financial impact on businesses in the Basildon borough could be £98.8m, which must be having a negative impact on productivity.
“We’re committed to doing all we can to support business growth in the borough and promote it as place to invest. Engaging with employers and helping them to make positive changes is key to this, including ensuring there is a clear focus on staff wellbeing.”
