With 1 in 4 people experiencing a mental health problem this year and a 75% job burnout rate due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the health and wellbeing of employees at Worcester Bosch has been a huge focus for them.
They have implemented many activities and initiatives to support colleagues through this difficult time. They have over 200 Mental Health First Aid Champions trained to offer practical support and 1:1 advice and run regular drop-in sessions for employees. Short burst virtual training sessions on navigating the new norm, getting quality sleep and staying energised in challenging times, have all helped their employees to cope with the many emotions they have been experiencing during these unprecedented times.
Worcestershire Works Well has helped Worcester Bosch to adopt a more strategic approach to their workplace health and wellbeing offering. Their employee-led Health and Wellbeing team have found the additional standards extremely helpful when planning the annual calendar of activities, initiatives and focus areas. Most recently they have focused on supporting Working Carers and are very proud to have joined Worcestershire’s Carer Friendly Employer Network – a new membership scheme to help identify and support carers in the workplace.
To support the Time To Change initiative, which looks to end the stigma around mental health, they have encouraged their colleagues to open up about mental health and spark conversations, creating a safe space at Lol’s Cafe at their Worcester HQ where employees could grab a free drink and cake and have a chat.
They are also currently working with partner charity Mind to champion mental health and support those who may be struggling.
Worcestershire Works Well is open to all public, private and third sector organisations located in Worcestershire, that have a minimum of 5 employees. The scheme has been operating for over 10 years and there are more than 100 active businesses across the county. Participation in the Worcestershire Works Well scheme is free.
The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are helping to support the Worcestershire Works Well scheme and can provide guidance to businesses looking to get involved.
To find out more information on the scheme please visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/worcestershireworkswell or interested businesses can contact dawnh@hwchamber.co.uk.