Mental health is a difficult subject to discuss, not least in the workplace. The British Safety Council has expressed support for Time to Talk Day and encouraged others to do the same.
Neal Stone, Policy and Standards Director, British Safety Council, explained why the British Safety Council is backing the campaign. “We know that there are major challenges when it comes to mental health and work, and it affects government, businesses and ultimately individuals. Without question, more needs to be done, and it starts with creating the space to have the conversations. Time to Talk Day is an important campaign to get this conversation going.
“In the UK mental ill-health costs £70 billion per year according to a recent OECD report. This is roughly 4.5% of GDP, in lost productivity at work, benefit payments and health care expenditure. Employers have a role to play in tackling this as better policies and practices in identifying and addressing these conditions help create the space for people to recognise and deal with mental health issues and get back to work. It can start with a few simple steps
To support Time to Talk Day, the British Safety Council made posters available for free download during February. ‘Don’t Let Stress Be Your World’ encourages workers to talk to their managers and colleagues about any stress they may be suffering.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
