Free webinars set to help Midlands businesses get talking about mental health

Kate Wood of the University of Derby said: “From our research, we know that employers, line managers and employees can all find it difficult to open up about mental health while at work.

“But poor mental health is one of the biggest causes of sickness absences, and this has only been exacerbated by COVID-19.

“These free webinars will help those working in different sectors understand that it’s actually easier than they might think to start conversations around mental health at work.

“Starting a small mental health campaign at work and getting staff talking can make all the difference to their wellbeing. Happier staff means fewer absences and better productivity in the long-run, so it’s a win-win for any employer.

And Sally Newnham of the University of Lincoln added: “We’ve already seen plenty of businesses download free resources as part of the Bridge the Gap, Start a Chat campaign, but we know many will still have questions.

“So we designed these webinars to guide employers through the first steps of setting up their own mental health campaign and encouraging their staff to start conversations around mental health.

“If enough employers get involved, we will see a huge reduction in stigma about mental health across the region, and happier workplaces where staff can thrive.

“We’d encourage any employers or line managers looking to make a difference at work to attend – it could make a massive difference.”