We want the Suffolk Business Minded initiative to provide ongoing support – that’s why we are hosting a forum for local businesses, including those who have signed up for the Mindful Employer Charter.
The 'Suffolk Business Minded Forum' meets quarterly, and is lead by the business needs of local employers. It is an opportunity for local businesses to meet, network and share knowledge on best business practice around stress, anxiety and mental health issues in the workplace.
The first forum was launched on 29th September 2009, and was a great success. The forum received very positive feedback from the local businesses who attended. The primary aim of the first forum meeting was to establish the members’ needs and use this to lay the foundations for the future direction of the forum.
Lesley Bailey [Development Manager, InterAct Ltd. & MHFA national trainer] gave a presentation on the Mindful Employer charter and how it can help businesses get the support they need around stress and mental health issues in the workplace. Lesley also talked briefly about a recent initiative - Mental Health First Aid and its aims of promoting awareness and understanding around mental health and mental illness, along with strategies to support those in distress.
Lesley’s talk was followed by a forum workshop that utilised some of the Mindful Employer resources to help the members to identify weaker areas within their business around these issues, and assist them in establishing strategies to make improvements.
Hilary Edington, consultant psychologist for IAPT [Improving Access To Psychological Therapies] then gave a talk on this recently launched service and how it is a great resource that can help your employees stay in work whilst they get treatment they need for stress / anxiety related issues.
The forum has limited numbers, and bookings will be taken on a first come first served basis.
To book your place on the forum please click here.