Health & Wellbeing
In the UK, one in five workers needed to take time off work in the past year due to poor mental health caused by pressure or stress, (The Burnout Report, Mental Health UK, January 2024). Given the alarming nature of statistics like these, the rise in mental health issues presents a growing concern for businesses.
Empowering organisations to support the mental health of their staff
The Swindon Mindful Employer Network (SMEN) is funded by Swindon Borough Council and is delivered in partnership with Business West and Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind.
SMEN supports businesses with expert advice and guidance, operating with the primary goal to empower organisations, regardless of size, in supporting the mental well-being of their staff. Additionally, it serves as a platform for business owners and managers to exchange experiences with peers and mental health professionals through a series of events.
About our SMEN event series
Throughout the SMEN event series, we welcome mindful employers from across Swindon and the local area to join us for crucial discussions surrounding mental health and employee wellbeing in the workplace. Whether you are a small business owner or hold a managerial role in a larger organisation, the series is intended to help foster an understanding, supportive and productive workplace for you and your employees.
At each event, we discuss different challenges and issues that employers might be faced with, providing tips on how to become a more mindful employer. Attendees also have the opportunity to add to the discussion through dedicated Q&A sessions.
Previously covered topics
Supporting your employees’ Mental health
Our first SMEN event took place in January 2024. To introduce the 2024 programme, the first session highlighted the importance of taking mental health seriously in the workplace, the common challenges that employers face when putting a plan in place, and some of the resources and materials that are out there to support businesses – no matter their size or budget. The slides are available to view.
Embracing individuality in the workplace
The second event took place online during Mental Health Awareness week in May, where we discussed embracing individuality in the workplace. Important topics such as menopause, menstrual health and how employers can support LGBTQI+ employees in the workplace were covered. Information was provided about Mental Health Awareness Week and this years’ ’theme of movement’. If you want to access these resources you can through our event recording and slides.
Fostering a safe environment at work
July was Alcohol Awareness Month and Samaritans Awareness Day. At this event, delegates learnt where employers can seek help for employees with a drink problem and foster a safe environment in the workplace for those suffering with addiction. The Samaritans highlighted their training courses to help employers identify and support anyone who is struggling to cope. Delegates also heard how they can benefit from a new free employment service. If you would like to refer to any of the advice and resources shared, the slides are available.
Preventing harm in the workplace
Our September event took place online on Suicide Prevention Day and focused on the importance of talking about mental health and preventing harm in the workplace. Delegates heard what Mental Health First Aiders do in the workplace and why their role is so important. Suicide awareness was discussed, with attendees hearing how to reach out and intervene if someone is in distress. If you missed the event, you can watch it here and the slides are available.
Our next event will be taking place in person on 13th November. If you’re interested in finding out more, you can visit our event page here and sign up today.
Logos to include on this page
Business West, Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind and Swindon Borough Council (add these at the top as part of a banner)
