Parkwood Leisure dedicates day to mental health in support of staff wellbeing

The initiative will give all managers the opportunity to speak to members of the HR team to discuss any issues that they are experiencing, both in and out of work, that may be impacting their wellbeing. All HR staff taking part are also trained mental health first aiders.

“The impact of COVID-19 is being felt across the leisure industry and we recognise the affects that lockdown and the subsequent re-opening may have had on staff at all levels in the business,” said Sue McGrath, HR Director for Parkwood Leisure.

“Our priority is providing our employees with the best support we can, and we hope that by dedicating a day to the subject of mental health, we can help raise awareness and encourage people to speak out and use the support in place to help them with their own unique situations.

“We understand that also, staff may not want to discuss issues with people they work with closely and so the day offers employees the chance to speak to trained members of staff that understand the organisation, but will be impartial to the discussions and ensure confidentiality.”

Information about external support services has also been circulated to all staff to assist those who may not want to speak directly about any issues.

This is the latest in a series of initiatives launched to support employees’ mental health and wellbeing. Last October, Parkwood launched a series of management workshops which addressed mental health in the workplace; participants were given advice and guidance on identifying common signs and symptoms of mental ill health, communication and listening skills to support interactions with employees and how to encourage a positive mental health culture in the workplace.