World Mental Health Day 2024: a day to celebrate

This year’s theme, ‘Mental Health at Work’, highlights the critical importance of addressing mental health issues in the workplace, recognising that a supportive work environment is essential for employee wellbeing and productivity.

At Forward, we are proud to provide all staff with three  annual wellbeing days, allowing them to take paid leave to focus on their mental health. Whether they choose to spend the day walking, reading, resting, or catching up on their favourite TV show, it’s an opportunity to put themselves first!

We have also established five staff-led Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), including Embrace, which focuses on Disability, Neurodiversity, and Mental Health. These groups are a great way to provide a supportive peer-led network for all colleagues to enable everyone to thrive and be their authentic selves.

Our ERGs have previously hosted talks to all staff, including a discussion led by Three Dads Walking, an incredible campaign set up by three dads who sadly lost their daughters to suicide to raise awareness of young people’s mental health. Other events ran by ERGs that focus on mental wellbeing include mindfulness sessions, laughter yoga, colourful coffee breaks, and even a HIIT class!

Alongside staff support, we are proud to offer a range of services to help clients with their mental health. Our free, online, confidential chat service Reach Out is available for anyone aged 16+ who is looking for someone to talk to. Our friendly volunteers are happy to help with requests about mental health, whether it relates to drug and/or alcohol use or not.

As we celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024, Forward reaffirms its commitment to advocating for mental health awareness in all aspects of life, particularly in the workplace. By fostering environments that prioritise mental wellbeing, we can work together to create a healthier and happier place to work.