Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 took place from 13th – 17th May, and the theme this year was ‘Movement: Moving more for our mental health.’
This theme symbolises the connection between physical activity and mental health, highlighting the incredible benefits exercise can have on mental wellbeing.
“The benefits of movement for mental health range from improved mood, reduced anxiety, lowered inflammation and stress, improved memory and concentration, increased confidence, improved sleep and even increased social connectedness.” – Mental Health Foundation.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2024:
To mark this important occasion, we created a timetable of events that incorporated movement with other wellness techniques to boost mental wellbeing amongst our colleagues.
- Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th May: Colleagues were invited to start their day with fresh fruit and juices, as we launched a number of internal competitions to encourage movement.
- Wednesday 15th May: Fresh fruit and juices made a return before our very own Silent Disco took place, from morning to late afternoon. Colleagues then gathered for two Wellness Walks in the evening at Crosby Beach and New Brighton promenade. The hour-long walks culminated in complimentary food and drink, allowing employees to connect and promote social engagement.
- Thursday 16th May: A 45-minute ‘Legs, Bums and Tums’ class took place at our innovative co-working space, The Hub which was suitable for all abilities.
- Friday 17th May: Our dedicated team of Health and Wellbeing Ambassadors, the ‘Good Vibe Tribe’ were on the go to deliver bottled smoothies and fresh fruit to remote operatives.
We also hosted a variety of competitions, such as the ‘Steps Challenge,’ providing colleagues with a chance to win Sports Direct vouchers in exchange for reaching the highest step count.
Furthermore, this week marked the launch of the first episode of the Sovini Speaks: Mental Health podcast. This podcast delves into the human side of mental health, with candid conversations that break down stigmas and uncover practical ways to navigate the highs and lows of mental health.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Mental Health Support at the Group:
Employee wellbeing is of paramount importance to the Group, and we are committed to supporting our colleague’s mental wellbeing, not only during Mental Health Awareness Week, but every day.
Colleagues benefit from 24-hour access to the Employee Assistance Programme, connecting them to professional consultants and counsellors that provide free, confidential advice.
In addition, colleagues can access Maximus, the Access to Work Mental Health Support service, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions. This offers personalised mental health support for a period of nine months from dedicated Mental Health specialists.
There are dedicated Mental Health Champions across the Group, who all hold a Level 2 certificate in Mental Health Awareness. They provide confidential support and signposting advice to employees, challenging the stigma and encouraging positive mental health.
Furthermore, our employee-app OurSpace contains the Mental Health Support Hub, which signposts colleagues to internal and external mental health support, should they need it.
To discover more about our award-winning workplace culture, click here.