Recognising the importance of mental health at work

NHS Professionals has taken another step forward in supporting the mental health of all of its employees by signing up to the UK Mental Health at Work Commitment.

The Commitment provides a framework which helps employers create an environment where all of their staff can thrive.  The six clear standards draw on national best practice and the expertise of mental health charities, leading employers and trade organisations.

“I am delighted that we have become signatories to this important Commitment,” said Nicola McQueen, CEO, NHS Professionals.

“The Commitment is based on the Thriving at Work Standards.  A recent audit by Unum, a workplace wellbeing specialist, has shown that we are already meeting all of these standards. In fact, we are exceeding the advanced standards, demonstrated by the work we have done over the last 12 months in this area.

“I appreciate that talking about mental health is not always easy, but it is my hope that with an open culture we can create an environment where these conversations can happen, for the sake of all of us.”

Over the last twelve months, more than thirty members of NHS Professionals staff have trained as Mental Health First Aiders, offering confidential advice and support to their colleagues.  The Institute of Learning, NHS Professionals’ bespoke career development portal, now includes substantial information about a wide range of mental health topics.  Continuing partnerships with experts such as Rethink Mental Illness and MindOut are also helping to support good mental health across the country.

“We want everyone who works here to feel that they can be themselves; that they can be open about their mental health; and that they can ask for support if they need it,” Nicola added.

“This is not only my ongoing commitment to all of our staff as CEO, but it is also the collective ambition of our Board.  We will continue to seek out partnerships and programmes that add to the progress we’ve already made and provide the best possible support to our staff.”

For more information about the Mental Health at Work Commitment, please see their dedicated website: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/commitment/