Call for employers to support mental health of staff returning to work

“We also found that many workers were less likely to speak to managers about experiencing mental health problems since lockdown as they were worried about what effect it could have on their job security.

“During Mental Health Awareness Week, we want to stress to employers that checking up on your staff’s mental health and encouraging them to open up as they return to work is not only good for their mental health and morale, but also boosts productivity too.

“We have seen that having a workplace culture that reduces stigma and allows workers to talk about their issues with their line managers or dedicated mental health champions reduces absences and presenteeism – where staff turn up for work despite being ill.

“If we can encourage Midlands employers to take proactive steps to improve mental health in their workplaces, it will go a long way to helping the economy recover.”

MHPP works with businesses and organisations of all sizes across the Midlands to recommend a free mental health programme that is right for them.

It is being led by Coventry University in partnership with the University of Warwick, the West Midlands Combined Authority, mental health charity Mind and the universities of Birmingham, Derby, Lincoln, Loughborough and Nottingham.

Any business looking to improve mental health in their workplaces should visit the MHPP website at mhpp.me