As England finds itself in a renewed lockdown as we head into the winter months, we have been implementing more initiatives to support the wellbeing of our colleagues through what, for some, will be a more challenging time than the first lockdown.

Keeping colleagues feeling engaged and part of a supportive team is challenging! When delivering initiatives, we focus on ensuring they address at least one of the ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’, namely Connecting, Exercising, Learning, Giving and Mindfulness.

In addition to the BAU initiatives we already have in place, such as ‘meeting-free lunch times’, a 3pm Friday finish where possible, a team of accessible Mental Health First Aiders and external employee support; following colleague feedback, we have launched ‘The Zen Zone’, a suite of activities and clubs that colleagues can participate in, including Baking Club, Couch to 5k, Cycling Challenge, Creative Writing, TikTok Style Challenges, Book Club, ‘Knit and Natter’ and Company Quiz’s.

With the couch to 5k group, we encourage colleagues to take a break at lunch time to go for their run, so not only are they taking a break from their work and screens, but are taking advantage of the daylight to get some vitamin D.

All the groups are sociable as they involve ‘chat’ through online Teams messaging and many involve virtual meet ups. Many encourage learning, growth and a sense of achievement. Others bring a bit of fun and light relief during these difficult times and provide ideas for activities that can be done over the weekends, whilst we are stuck indoors.

Employee wellbeing is a priority throughout our business and colleagues are given the time and flexibility to participate. An added benefit is that these activities bring colleagues together from across the business, helping to strengthen working relationships and our teams.

More information around employee wellbeing can be found at www.mentalhealth.org.uk/