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Talking about mental health

Foreword

I am often asked whose responsibility it is within an organisation to improve the health and well- being of employees. The simple answer is that it is incumbent upon all of us, whether human resources or occupational health professionals, company directors, employees, or indeed line managers to work together to improve workplace health.

Every one of us should have the opportunity to benefit from the positive impact good work has on physical and mental health, especially those with existing mental health conditions.

The role of line managers in improving access to good work for people with mental health conditions is crucial. A supportive, responsive and inspiring line manager who works to understand the needs of employees can make an enormous difference to the individual whilst also helping to break down the stigma and discrimination barrier surrounding mental health issues.

People with mental health conditions are working in all levels of employment and flourishing, and even those with severe conditions can be highly effective and fulfilled employees. The Line Managers’ Resource delivers clear, concise guidelines that, if utilised, will give those struggling at work the chance to stay in employment and flourish.

Line managers are unique in workplace support structures because they are constantly in contact with the employees for whom they are responsible. They are therefore able to identify problems early, before they manifest in sickness absence. Early intervention by a line manager can restore an employee’s confidence thus strengthening their mental health, and protecting them from potentially damaging long term sickness absence.

Shift’s updated Line Managers’ Resource is not only a practical tool that all line managers should use; it also successfully debunks many of the myths surrounding mental health in the workplace.

I congratulate Shift on its continued work on mental health issues and look forward to seeing the tool used universally.

Dame Carol Black
National Director for Health and Work
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