Staff support strengthened as 4 All becomes a Mindful Employer

The wellbeing of 4 All’s staff and volunteers is of paramount importance – and that’s why the foundation has signed up to a national charter.

Established in 2004, Mindful Employer is a UK-wide initiative which provides employers with easier access to professional workplace mental health training, information and support. A core aim of the Charter for Employers Positive About Mental Health is to empower organisations to take a lead in supporting the mental wellbeing of their staff.

Becoming a Mindful Employer means we have committed to providing non-judgemental and proactive support to staff experiencing mental ill-health; being positive and enabling towards all employees and applicants with a mental health condition; and supporting team leaders to manage mental health in the workplace.

Avoiding discrimination against or assumptions about those with mental ill-health is also a crucial part of the charter, which more than 1,350 organisations have signed to date.

George Hounsell, 4 All’s Director of Operations, said: “Sadly, we know the number of people affected by mental ill-health is on the rise – with Mind reporting a 45% increase over the past two decades. It’s so important that employers not only understand what their responsibilities are when it comes to staff wellbeing, but also that managers feel empowered to provide proactive support, spot any signs there may be an issue, and broach conversations around mental health.

“A lot of our programmes are focused around supporting the health and wellbeing of the communities, and ensuring that same level of compassion and care is available for our staff and volunteers is essential too.”

You can find out more about the Mindful Employer initiative and the charter here.