MINDFUL EMPLOYER Leeds

Because it pays to be positive about mental health

Taking a positive approach

Stress, anxiety and depression cause more working days lost than any other health problem. The financial cost to British business of mental ill health is an estimated £30 billion per year – that’s equivalent to £1050 for every employee. Since the 2008–09 recession, there’s been an increase in work stressors such as job insecurity, work intensity and inter-personal conflict at work. Absenteeism causes business critical issues, as does ‘presenteeism’: employees under-performing and struggling to work, perhaps for fear of losing their job.

What can I do?

Communicate
It’s well recognised that people don’t feel comfortable about disclosing a mental health condition for fear of a negative reaction – especially if their job’s on the line. You’re not there to be a counsellor or therapist but creating an environment which allows people to talk confidentially is crucial.
Get Help
Specialist support for employers is available and it’s important to liaise with GPs, occupational health providers and mental health professionals. Try and gain permission to contact someone: it’ll be in everyone’s interest to do so.

Improve knowledge
Mental health awareness training will help with understanding about mental health conditions and enable managers and colleagues to support staff experiencing such difficulties.
Prevent
It costs less to retain experienced employees than recruit and train new ones. Creating a mentally healthy workplace improves productivity, increases profit and brings the best out of everyone. Demonstrate your commitment by signing the MINDFUL EMPLOYER Charter for Employers who are Positive About Mental Health

Who can help?

MINDFUL EMPLOYER® is a UK-wide, NHS initiative developed and run in conjunction with employers.
Leeds Mind/WorkPlace Leeds is the lead partner for MINDFUL EMPLOYER in Leeds. Contact us for advice, information and support.
See links below for other agencies that might offer assistance.
With the right support, people with mental health issues can & do stay in work. With the right support, you can continue to deliver your business

Contact Us

Leeds Mind/WorkPlace Leeds
De Lacey House
Abbey Road
Kirkstall
Leeds
LS5 3HS

0113 2302631

Email: mindfulemployer@leedsmind.org.uk
Twitter: @MindEmployerLds

Useful Links

ACAS
Access to work
Information for Mental Health
Leeds Mind
Local Resources (NHS and third sector)
Mind
Mindful Employer

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Resources

NHS self-help guides on anxiety, stress, depression, sleep, anger etc

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