Mental Health & Wellbeing

What do we mean by Mental Health & Wellbeing?

Mental health and wellbeing in the workplace is about the psychological and emotional state of employees, and the efforts made by employers to support their mental health and wellbeing. This includes promoting a positive and supportive work environment, offering mental health resources and support, and addressing factors that may negatively impact mental health.

What is the Law on Mental Health & Wellbeing when it comes to the workplace, recruitment and careers?

The UK has several laws that protect employees’ mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. The primary legislation is the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which places a duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. This includes the duty to assess the risks of work-related stress and take steps to prevent harm. Additionally, the Equality Act 2010 makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate against employees on the basis of a mental health condition, and reasonable adjustments must be made to ensure they are not at a disadvantage.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 also require employers to undertake risk assessments to identify potential hazards in the workplace that could harm the mental health of their employees. Furthermore, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 provide specific requirements for the workplace environment, such as providing adequate ventilation, lighting, and rest facilities, to promote employees’ mental wellbeing.

Employers also have a legal duty to provide adequate training and support to their employees to manage mental health issues in the workplace. This includes training managers to recognize the signs of mental health problems and how to offer appropriate support. It is essential to have policies and procedures in place to manage mental health issues, including a clear process for employees to raise concerns and receive support.

In summary, the UK Law on mental health and wellbeing in the workplace places a duty on employers to assess the risks of work-related stress, take steps to prevent harm, and provide support and reasonable adjustments to employees with mental health conditions. Employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment, offer appropriate training to their employees and managers, and have policies in place to manage mental health issues.