1st June 2022

The last few years have been challenging, and we've realised the importance of reaching out and prioritising the mental well-being of our teams each and every day.

As a business centred around people, it is our responsibility as an employer to provide a nurturing and healthy environment that puts our people first.

So far this year, we have extended certified mental health first aid training to 12 managers, and there is no sign of stopping.

By providing our teams with in-depth skills focused on mental health, we can support those experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis, and we can promote a supportive work culture for all.

This week we took the next step in our well-being journey, with City & Essex formally pledging to the Workplace Mental Health Charter.

As part of this, we have committed to:

- Recognise that Mental Health challenges can be an issue within the workplace, and employees may need support.
- Talk openly, respectfully and positively about Mental Health.
- Get the conversation started around Mental Health and recognise we all have Mental Health, just like we have physical health.
- Actively support and inform employees affected by Mental Health Challenges.

The Mental Health Charter is a movement to change the way people think and act about mental health challenges, and we are excited to work with them to develop robust action plans to make real and lasting changes for our teams.

We want everyone who works for us to know that we are here. Our selection of mental health first aiders keeps well-being on the agenda and provides a safe space for our colleagues to find support.