Environment Agency Scoops Award For Workplace Wellbeing From Mental Health Charity Mind

The Environment Agency has retained an award from mental health charity Mind for its ‘excellence in promoting wellbeing in the workplace’

It came as part of the charity’s Workplace Wellbeing Index Awards 2017-18, and saw the public body secure top prize for the second time in succession.

To win the accolade, The Environment Agency proved it was promoting good mental health at work following a series of assessments, including a staff survey, carried out by Mind.

Overall, 74 employers took part in the survey, which Mind says is “a benchmark of best policy and practice.”

It was a double celebration for the Environment Agency, with Neil Longden, 47, from Leeds, scooping the Line Manager Award in recognition of his tireless support for colleagues.

He said: “Initially I was lost for words, it came as a complete surprise. It’s really humbling to find that someone has taken time out to describe the positive impact I’ve had on their life. It feels brilliant to be making a difference.

“Being a supportive manager is the right thing to do, but it should be normal. We spend such a large proportion of time in our lives at work, it’s only right that we should create a positive environment for people to be their best.”

Mental health is as important as physical health. Proud that @envagency has once again been recognised by @MindCharity as the best in the country, enabling everyone to be their best at work. #mentalhealth pic.twitter.com/6TPlrNL5Yg

— James Bevan (@JamesBevanEA) April 18, 2018

An awards ceremony took place at BMA House, the headquarters of the British Medical Association, in Central London, and was hosted by Mind Ambassador, Alastair Campbell.

The Environment Agency was shown to have “awareness-raising and special training available to help staff and line managers spot mental health warning signs and know where to find support.

James Bevan, Environment Agency Chief Executive, said: “I'm delighted that the Environment Agency has won this award. A healthy workforce means a more productive workforce. And an inclusive culture makes work more life-enhancing.

“The fact that we're number one in the index again shows just how much work is going on across the Environment Agency to ensure all of us feel free to talk openly about mental health issues and know where to get help and support if we need it.

“Our staff-led Mental Health Network is doing a tremendous job, backed up by tools and information provided through our Wellbeing Team. I'm proud of the real difference this is making.”

Emma Mamo, Head of Workplace Wellbeing at Mind, said: “We want to congratulate the Environment Agency for topping the board at this year’s Workplace Wellbeing Index Awards, for the second year running.

“The Environment Agency has once again demonstrated that they are at the forefront of creating mentally healthy workplaces, which involves tackling stress and supporting the mental wellbeing of the entire workforce, including employees that might be struggling with their mental health.”

For more information on how to support yours or a colleague's wellbeing at work, visit Counselling Directory.

To register your interest in taking part in next year’s Workplace Wellbeing Index, please visit mind.org.uk/index.