Today is World Mental Health Day (10th October) – a reminder of how vital it is for every organisation to prioritise wellbeing and resilience in the workplace.
As a valued partner of Mersey Maritime, Kays Medical are leading the way in this area, helping organisations build healthier, safer and more productive environments.
We’re pleased to share a blog from Mary Rafferty, Director of Clinical Services at Kays Medical, who explores why occupational health matters, the challenges employers face, and the practical steps businesses can take to better support their people:
Why is it so important for employers to invest in mental health support for their teams?
Investing in mental health support is essential because a significant proportion of employees, 61%, have experienced mental health issues where work was a contributing factor. This not only affects their personal wellbeing but also impacts their ability to perform effectively at work. From a legal standpoint, UK employers have a duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act to protect both the physical and mental health of their employees. Beyond compliance, supporting mental health leads to reduced absenteeism, improved productivity, and higher staff retention. According to Mind and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), mentally healthy workplaces are more resilient, engaged, and productive.
What common challenges do you see employees facing when it comes to mental health at work?
Employees often face a range of challenges related to mental health in the workplace. These include high levels of work-related stress, often caused by excessive workloads, lack of control, poor communication, and organisational change. Many employees also struggle with the stigma surrounding mental health, which can prevent them from speaking up or seeking help. A lack of awareness or training means that early signs of distress often go unnoticed, and employees may not know where to turn for support. Isolation, particularly during periods of sickness absence, can further exacerbate mental health issues if not managed sensitively.
How do occupational health services, including your award-winning Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), play a role in supporting both employers and employees with wellbeing in the workplace?
Occupational health services and Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) play a crucial role in supporting workplace wellbeing. These services provide confidential assessments, advice, and interventions that help employees manage mental health challenges and return to work safely. They also support employers by offering guidance on reasonable adjustments, legal compliance, and best practices for managing mental health in the workplace. EAPs typically offer counselling, helplines, and signposting to further support, enabling early intervention and reducing the risk of long-term absence. Together, these services help create a culture of care and accountability within organisations.
Can you tell us more about the Mental Health First Aid training courses Kays Medical delivers and the impact they have on organisations?
Kays Medical delivers a range of Mental Health First Aid training courses designed to raise awareness, build understanding, and develop emotional resilience in the workplace. The two-day Mental Health First Aid course introduces key legislation, explores the impact of mental health on UK businesses, and focuses on identifying individuals at risk and providing effective interventions. A one-day course is also available for managers, which focuses on creating a mentally healthy work environment and includes risk assessment planning in line with HSE guidance. Additionally, a three-hour awareness course helps employees recognise signs of distress and learn how to approach colleagues in need. All courses are delivered by experienced psychiatric professionals and can be tailored to meet specific business needs. Nationally, Mental Health First Aid training has been shown to increase confidence in supporting others, reduce stigma, and improve overall workplace culture.
From your experience, what are the first practical steps organisations can take if they want to prioritise mental health more effectively?
The first practical step organisations can take is to commit to a structured approach, such as signing up to the Mental Health at Work Commitment, which outlines six evidence-based standards for creating a mentally healthy workplace. Training line managers to recognise and respond to mental health issues is also essential, as they are often the first point of contact for employees in distress. Developing a clear mental health policy, conducting risk assessments, and offering access to support services like EAPs or Mental Health First Aiders are all effective ways to embed mental health into the fabric of the organisation. Regular check-ins and open conversations about wellbeing can also make a significant difference.
How can training and awareness initiatives help break down stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health at work?
Training and awareness initiatives are powerful tools for breaking down stigma and fostering a culture of openness around mental health. By educating employees and managers about mental health conditions, their signs, and how to respond, these initiatives help normalise conversations and reduce fear or misunderstanding. Communication skills training enables staff to approach sensitive topics with empathy and confidence, while awareness sessions encourage early intervention and peer support. Over time, this leads to a more inclusive and supportive workplace where employees feel safe to speak up and seek help when needed.
To find out more about Kays Medical, the wide range of services they provide, and how they support businesses and employees, please click HERE. Discover how their expertise can help your organisation stay healthy, compliant, and productive.
