Mental Health Awareness Week took place from 13-19 May 2019 and at NewcastleGateshead Initiative we hosted a range of initiatives to engage staff in healthy conversations about mental well-being.
At the start of the week we invited our staff to take part in a mindful walk along the quayside, this was a great way for us to get staff to take part in a physical activity, take time away from their desk and connect with colleagues. A regular evening running club also takes place on a Thursday and during the week we encouraged more of our staff to join in.
On the Friday we hosted a ‘Curry and Chaat’ where we encouraged everyone to come together, eat curry and chat. We used this time to talk about the things that improve or have a negative impact on our mental well-being.
Throughout the week we also provided staff with helpful hints and relaxation tips on how to manage stress and anxiety.
Sarah Stewart, Chief Executive Officer, Newcastle Gateshead Initiative said:
“Mental health problems can affect anyone at any time, and at NewcastleGateshead Initiative we are committed to creating a culture where staff feel supported and safe. We used Mental Health Awareness Week to raise awareness, spark conversation and promote good mental health in the workplace. Initiatives like this are a great way for us to raise awareness and we were delighted with how many staff engaged.”
At NewcastleGateshead Initiative we have two trained Mental Health First Aiders. The training they have had helps them to identify, understand and help a colleague who may need additional support. They are also part of a wider NewcastleGateshead Initiative Health & Well-being Team who are responsible for driving better health in the workplace, promoting both physical and mental well-being. They are responsible for driving initiatives forward, acting as advocates and signposting colleagues to support.
NGI Solutions is working in partnership with the Newcastle United Foundation to deliver the ‘Be a Game Changer’ promotional campaign. It aims is to encourage people in our city to talk openly about mental health and to provide tips on how to improve your physical and mental well-being.
According to Mind, 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year, that’s an average of 12,989 fans at every Newcastle United game.
In England, 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health issue (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week.
For more information or support for yourself, colleagues or friends visit Mind.org.uk