Suffolk MP Dr Dan Poulter has called on businesses to sign up to an ongoing mental health initiative.
Under the scheme- called ‘Where’s Your Head At?’ Workplace Manifesto- employers are encouraged to adopt a series of core standards for a mentally healthy workplace as set out in the Government’s Thriving at Work report.
The idea has been backed by mental health organisations including Mind, Samaritans, the Mental Health Foundation, Rethink Mental Illness, Young Minds and the Royal College of Psychiatrists, as well as organisations such as the Confederation of British Industry and the Institute of Directors.
It calls for mental health to be given the same priorities as physical health in the workplace, and to empower employees to feel able to talk openly about issues, such as stress and depression.
Dr Poulter said: “As a practising NHS mental health doctor, I see people with poor mental health on a regular basis and provide care for some of the most vulnerable people with severe and enduring mental ill-health.For too long, poor mental health has been stigmatised and this simply must end”
“Part of ending the stigma around poor mental health will require employers to better support staff who run into difficulties and I shall be doing all that I can to encourage businesses in central Suffolk and north Ipswich to make a clear commitment to their employees’ mental health and wellbeing and to sign this workplace manifesto.”
To find out more about the scheme and its core standards, go online to www.wheresyourheadat.org.
