CEO of Mind calls on businesses to tackle “silent mental health crisis”

The CEO of Mind has called on businesses to make mental health a top priority to address the “silent mental health crisis” which has doubled since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The very first ‘What’s Next?’ live event discussion, hosted by Q5, an award-winning organisational health consultancy, and Prospect Magazine, saw experts from across the world of retail and mental health come together to tackle an important conversation regarding rising anxiety levels in the workplace.

Speakers Steve Rowe, former CEO of M&S, Mary Homer, CEO of The White Company, and Paul Farmer, co-author of Government review ‘Thriving at Work’ and CEO of Mind, all joined forces to discuss best practices in front of a live audience.

Steve Rowe, who previously worked as the Director of Food at M&S for 35 years, explained the importance of having an open policy in the workplace, so that colleagues feel comfortable to talk about any struggles they might be facing both at work and at home.

Mary Homer, who recently celebrated her 5th Anniversary at The White Company, put emphasis on the business culture to improve anxiety levels.

She explained that in her experience if you are able to provide an inclusive, empowering, diverse workplace culture, people will enjoy coming to work. Furthermore, by implementing support such as mental health first-aiders, employees felt more supported.

Balance is right Paul Farmer CEO of Mind, explained how the balance needs to be right across all levels of the business, to ensure all staff from junior members right up to the CEO, all get the support they need.

Paul highlighted that anxiety and mental health was a huge issue which needs to be prioritised, but that we can’t do it alone. Everyone needs to work collaboratively to help ease the rising levels of anxiety.

Speaking of the event’s success, Annabel Tonge, brand and marketing director at Q5, said: “It has been fantastic to get such influential experts in one room and shine a light on anxiety and what more can be done.

“Mental health in the workplace needs to be taken as seriously as every other illness and the first step of this is getting the conversation started and spreading awareness. This is our very first ‘What’s Next?’ live discussion and we have been overwhelmed with the response. We can’t wait to delve into the next topic.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →