Mannok launch new Mental Health Charter

Company outlines commitment to employees and launches new partnership with AWARE

MANNOK have launched a new Mental Health Charter and a partnership with mental health charity AWARE to promote good mental health and well-being to their 830 employees. The Charter outlines Mannok’s focus on mental health and supporting those who need it.

Company representatives were joined by Bridie Kelly of AWARE to launch both the Charter and the new partnership during Mental Health Awareness Week (10–16 May).

AWARE is the depression charity for Northern Ireland and has 23 rural and urban support groups throughout the country. These groups offer a range of very valuable support to anyone who is struggling with their mental health. Mannok’s partnership with AWARE also helps mark 25 years of the charity’s valuable work in the local region.

Commenting on the company’s mental health initiatives, HR manager Caroline McCaffrey said: ‘The health and safety of our staff is our top priority, and mental health is a very important part of that. We recognize that many people may be dealing with mental ill health for a number of reasons, particularly given the challenges we’ve all faced due to COVID-19 and the impact it’s had on everyone’s lives.

‘This is a key area of focus for us as a large employer and we have a responsibility to employees to throw a spotlight on mental health and highlight the support available. It’s also important that we reassure people that if they do need help, it is available to them and we encourage them to get the support they need.

‘Our new Mental Health Charter outlines our commitment to our employees’ mental health and well-being for the long term. We are appointing a number of Mental Health First Aiders in the business who will be trained to identify signs of mental ill health amongst our staff and will be available to support and signpost them to the relevant services.

‘We’re delighted to partner with AWARE on this initiative to help us raise awareness within our own organization of the importance of looking after your mental well-being and highlighting the essential support services they provide. We’re also encouraging our staff to show their support for AWARE through a fundraising drive for the charity.’

As part of the launch of their mental health initiatives, Mannok promoted daily themes throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, such as ‘Get Active’, ‘Mental Health in the Workplace’, ‘Support’ and ‘Nature and Mental Health’. A range of virtual activities and events were provided by AWARE, and Mannok also teamed up with local fitness company, RITE Fitness, to deliver a series of fitness, yoga and meditation videos for employees and their families to enjoy any time.

Working closely with AWARE, the company will be implementing a programme of mental health-focused initiatives going forward.