5.
SUPPORTING MENTAL WELLBEING AT WORK
5.1
We want to ensure that our workplace supports good mental health for all staff. However, we recognise that there may be occasions when events at work or outside work result in staff feeling that their mental health is suffering. Anyone who feels that they are suffering from work-related stress should follow the steps set out in paragraph 6 in addition to making use of the support services referred to in this policy which all staff are encouraged to access if they ever feel they need support or assistance.
5.2
All managers should provide support to staff. In particular, they need to:
(a) Promote a culture of open communication.
(b) Effectively plan and provide feedback on performance.
(c)
Ensure that staff receive necessary training.
(d) Monitor workloads and reallocate work where necessary.
(e) Ensure that staff understand the standards of behaviour expected of them and others, and act on behaviour that falls below those standards.
5.3
We have a number of mental health champions and mental health first aiders who can be contacted by any member of staff who is experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress, and who can provide details of available support. Details of mental health champions and mental health first aiders can be found on the Notice Board.
5.4
We have the following services in place to assist staff who may be suffering from stress or poor mental health:
(a) Training and workshops on stress management and mental wellbeing, to assist staff and managers in recognising and coping with stress and take care of their mental health.
(b) Our Occupational Health Department. The department can:
(i) provide specialist advice on work-related stress and mental wellbeing; and
(ii) support individuals who have been off sick and advise on return to work plans, including phased returns and adjustments to support a return to work.
(c) Senior Management are trained to support staff suffering from work-related stress or mental health issues.
5.5
Help and information can also be obtained from Mind, the mental health charity, www.mind.org.uk or the Samaritans, www.samaritans.org .
5.6
If any member of staff is considered by their manager or colleagues to be at serious risk of self-harm, or of harming others, action must be taken straight away. The matter should be referred to Senior Management who will seek medical advice if that is reasonably practicable. Every effort will be made to contact any person nominated by the member of staff as an emergency contact. Where necessary the emergency services will be called. The wellbeing of the member of staff and those around them will at all times be our first concern.
125
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker