M is for… Mental Health

1 in 6 people will experience mental health problems in the workplace. There is strong evidence to suggest that 12.7% of all sickness absence days in the UK can be attributed to mental health conditions, with an estimated cost of £8 billion per year.

At Dimensions our staff are more than just a number - so we’ve implemented a number of schemes to help to improve the way we understand mental health and as a result help to make our staff healthier and Dimensions a better place to work.

Across the MWUK brand, each company has a dedicated mental health first aider. These individuals are trained how to identify, understand and help someone who may be experiencing a mental health issue. They aren’t therapists, but they listen, reassure and respond in a crisis. They have also been trained to support and empower our people to access the support they might need for recovery, or in managing their symptoms, such as access to self-help books and websites or help with accessing therapy services through their GP.

We have also organised, developed and are running successful workshops and e-learning modules covering topics such as: emotional resilience, managing change, mindfulness and healthy eating. Mental health awareness is important, and particularly helpful for prompting those with issues to seek help, but action is also needed. We have encouraged and supported our people to take action and this has been well received and appreciated. Our employee engagement survey feedback together with Employee Forum feedback tells us that we are helping – and our absence rates and turnover continue to be low.

Pat Woodfield, HR Director for the MWUK group said: “We will always be dedicated to making Dimensions a great place to work and believe that no one should have to struggle alone with their mental health. We’re taking huge steps within the company to reduce the stigma often associated with mental health conditions, help people to understand what action they can take and continue to support a healthy and happy workforce.”