Lieutenancy & The University of Northampton
Matt Bushell, centre, with Sarah Hillier and James Harrop
Business-charity partnership in action
Recent figures highlight the urgency of addressing mental health issues in the workplace. With one in four people experiencing mental health problems in their lifetime, and accessibility to mental health services a critical issue, proactive measures are essential. According to the Centre for Mental Health, the
UK loses 15.8 million days of sickness annually due to mental ill health, emphasising the need for robust support mechanisms. Previous articles have explored business-charity
partnerships. This month we showcase an excellent example, Northants Working Minds, piloted here in Northampton, between the London-based Minderful Ltd and the Northamptonshire Mind charity. It is the brainchild of Matt Bushell, Business Development Lead at Minderful.
Empowering workplace culture Northamptonshire Mind has long been dedicated to transforming and providing mental health services in the region. Its award-winning, innovative approach is centred on improving health and well-being through a variety of preventative and recovery-focused services. T ese services are designed to support and empower individuals in their mental health journeys, emphasising resilience and proactive care. Minderful brings extensive experience in enhancing
workforce health, morale and productivity through behaviour change methodologies. Together, the partnership supports organisations in understanding their culture, assessing the mental health and wellness of employees, and creating thriving workplaces. T is collaboration aims to work with 60 Northampton-
shire organisations, celebrating Northamptonshire Mind’s 60th anniversary. Northamptonshire Mind was recently chosen as an offi cial charity partner by the Accor Group’s Northampton Town Centre Hotel, where the initiative was launched.
James Harrop Founder Minderful
Adrian Pryce DL
Associate Professor Strategy & Society CSBP University of Northampton
Strategies for lasting change Northants Working Minds isn’t solely focused on addressing mental health issues; it’s about cultivating a culture of wellness. The initiative employs proven behaviour change methodologies to assess and trans- form organisational culture. This approach ensures that wellness initiatives
are firmly anchored in the organisation’s values and aligned with business performance goals. By fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, the initia- tive aims to reduce absenteeism, enhance productivity, and improve overall employee satisfaction.
Connecting workplace and community A distinguishing feature of Northants Working Minds is its integration of workplace mental health interventions with community-based support programmes. This includes social prescribing and crisis cafes, which offer resources and support outside the workplace. By leveraging community resources such as green
spaces for active travel and exercises in nature, the initi- ative provides holistic support to employees, enhancing their wellbeing both at work and in their personal lives. Unlike traditional Employee Assistance Programmes, Northants Working Minds offers community-specific opportunities to boost wellbeing and productivity.
Nick Prior Founder Minderful
Financial case Investing in mental health isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s a strategic imperative. Poor mental health in the workplace leads to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and high turnover rates, all of which impact the bottom line. According to Deloitte, for every pound invested in mental
health, there’s a return of £5 in improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs. By prioritising mental health, organisations not only fulfi l their CSR but also drive tangible business outcomes, enhancing employee wellbeing and organisational performance.
Transformational change Northants Working Minds also focuses on tackling the stigma associated with mental health, aiming to cultivate psychological safety and create conditions where employ- ees feel valued and supported. T is fosters a more engaged and resilient workforce. T e goal is to engage 60 organisations across the county.
By fostering a culture of wellness, integrating community support, and making a compelling business case for mental health, this partnership between Northamptonshire Mind and Minderful is poised to create transformational change in Northamptonshire’s business community. Why not join them? Keep it in mind.
Matt Bushell, centre, with Sarah Hillier, CEO of Northamptonshire Mind and James Harrop
Scan the QR code to fi nd out more about Northants Working Minds. Organisations interested in joining this transformative journey can contact
Matthew@Minderful.com
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