On the World Mental Health Day this year I have sent an email to inform my team that I will be making a pledge to promote their well-being.
What I did not realise is that majority of my staff did not even know the existence of World mental Health Day and that this year the focus is on us!
I have since received a few emails with feedback and requests for discussions about what I could do both as a manager and leader to support their well-being. They were also very grateful that I am trying my best. They also really enjoy the little treats I bought them from the Chinese supermarket too!
The highlight however was when one of my staff had a difficult time at home recently. I offered her additional support, as well as some work options. On her return from work she gave me a box of chocolates and a thank you card - she said 'you really practise what you preach. In the last 27 years I work in the hospital I never felt so supported and being listened to. All this time I was so worried about my Bradford sickness scoring!'.