Berkshire: Employers urged to focus on mental health issues

Brighter Berkshire, the community-led initiative which aims to reduce stigma and improve everyone’s mental health, is calling for the region’s businesses to transform the way we manage mental health in the county. One in four adults in the UK currently has a mental health problem, affecting the lives of tens of millions of people.  The OECD has put the economic cost to the UK as between £70 billion and £100b a year.

Brighter Berkshire has launched A Year of Mental Health 2017, using the power of networks, collaboration and sharing positive stories to change the way we manage mental health in the county.  Schools, sports, services and the arts can make a small pledge to do one thing to make an impact, linking to local charities to drive this change.

We’re now calling on businesses to get involved to:

• Make a pledge to improve the mental health of your workforce
• Create a work opportunity for someone with a mental health problem

A key platform is Brighter Berkshire’s £1 per employee programme, encouraging employers to donate £1 per employee towards their good mental health. With statistics showing that mental health issues cost businesses £1,000-plus per person, these vital funds will drive Brighter Berkshire’s events, increase awareness and strengthen support networks across the region.

Cisco, the worldwide IT leader, which has one of its key sites in Berkshire, is drawing on its leadership in the mental health area to set a template for other businesses.  Its award-winning strategy includes training mental health first aiders, addressing mental health in its young leaders and Apprentices as well as hosting coffee mornings where people with a mental health issue can receive support.

Phil Smith from Cisco commented: “We understand the importance of supporting the whole individual to grow, develop and succeed in work and in life. There are many aspects to mental health from helping staff understand their strengths and potential, to managing change and dealing with failure. Stress can have a big effect on individuals, teams and on the business. Our economy relies on us taking this issue seriously.”

He added: “In any industry, it’s very easy to get carried away on a constant drive to be the best. But we will only succeed if we value the difference each one of our employees bring, ensuring a strong emphasis is placed on looking after their mental health and by encouraging them to speak up when they need support.”

Alison Foster, founder of Brighter Berkshire, added: “Our aim is to build the largest countywide network of diverse people, ideas and voluntary commitment to come together to improve mental health.  We’re hugely grateful to Cisco for their support and driving a culture of openness around mental health.  Mental health problems often start in the workplace so it’s vital employers understand how to respond effectively and compassionately to support the best outcome.  It’s time for action. We need to foster this change within other businesses in Berkshire so we’re urging all employers to get involved.”