In Finnebrogue’s ongoing commitment to promoting a healthy and inclusive workplace, it launched the Wellbeing at Work initiative 18 months ago. To further support employees’ mental health, they partnered with Insula Wellbeing 12 months ago to provide regular mental health check-ups. Finnebrogue’s commitment to being a responsible employer was recognised at the Irish News Wellbeing & Employer Awards 2024 when it was awarded Best Place to Work and Best Wellbeing in the Workplace.
This week [24th – 28th June] marks World Wellbeing Week, a global initiative that highlights the importance of physical, mental, and emotional health, as well as the social and economic factors that influence wellbeing.
Over the past year, almost 300 Finnebrogue employees have received a confidential mental health check up from Insula Wellbeing counsellors, and the company continues to see demand rising for the on-site service. The checkups are more than just a preventive measure; they are a vital part of the business’s ongoing efforts to create a supportive and nurturing work environment. By addressing mental health proactively, Finnebrogue aims to empower its employees, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive both personally and professionally.
Finnebrogue’s collaboration with Sharon and Jessica from Insula Wellbeing has been instrumental in providing expert guidance and tailored mental health services to all colleagues. The sessions, on site day and evening, offer a confidential space for colleagues to discuss their mental health concerns, receive professional advice, and develop strategies to manage stress and enhance their overall wellbeing.
Finnebrogue takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, and offers a full calendar of wellbeing events throughout the year, with the opportunity for colleagues to socialise and meet new friends, get outdoors and be active, or simply step away from the desk and enjoy some quiet downtime and headspace in the picnic areas or roof terrace.
As we celebrate World Wellbeing Week, we are reminded of the critical role that mental health plays in our daily lives.
In 2022 / 23, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) reported:
- The total number of workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety was 875,000, a prevalence rate of 2,590 per 100,000 workers.
- Stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 49% of all work-related ill-health cases and 54% of all working days lost due to work-related ill-health.
- The main work factors cited as causing work-related stress, depression or anxiety include the demands of the job, lack of control, lack of information and support, work relationships, and roles and responsibilities.
A CIPD 2023 report found that ‘Around a third of respondents report that their health and wellbeing activity has resulted in better employee morale and engagement [35%] and a healthier and more inclusive culture [31%]’, although 37% of respondents said it was too early to tell.
