As we mark World Mental Health Day, there’s no better time to take a moment, and think about mental wellbeing in the workplace.

The last 18 months haven’t been easy for anyone; the pandemic has brought personal challenges to many, whether that’s bereavement, isolation, or loss of income – all these factors have triggered and are continuing to trigger poor mental health.

So, today, we’re urging employers to make a positive difference to their business and prioritise the mental wellbeing of staff.

Fife Council’s Supported Employment Service has a Just Ask Listen Talk (JALT) toolkit, which is free and available to businesses. It’s easy to use and offers straight talking guidance on how to create and sustain a mentally healthy workplace and how to have conversations with and support staff who are struggling or off sick due to poor mental health.

Sandra Sharp of Fife Council’s Supported Employment Service, said:

“We want to encourage Fife-based businesses to improve workplace mental health by using the Just Ask Listen Talk toolkit. Prioritising staff mental health and wellbeing reduces staff absence, increases productivity and improves moral.

“The JALT toolkit encourages employers to talk with their staff about the things that matter to them, any anxieties or concerns they might be experiencing and helps employer recognise the signs of poor mental health. Just start asking, talking and listening to staff about their mental health. It’s good for you, your employees and your business!”

For more information, email: sw.ses@fife.gov.uk