A new survey carried out by ACAS has found that around 9 in 10 employees think it is important for bosses to prioritise staff mental health.
ACAS is encouraging employers to talk to their staff to ensure mental wellbeing is supported in the workplace.
ACAS Head of Inclusive Workplaces Julie Dennis said: “Bosses should treat poor mental health at work in the same way as physical illness and regularly ask their staff how they are doing.
“Some people with poor mental health can also be considered disabled under the Equality Act, which means an employer must make reasonable adjustments at work.
“Mental health includes emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how someone thinks, feels and behaves. Having conversations with staff in a sympathetic way can be a good first step”.
By Law (Equality Act 2010) someone with poor mental health can be considered to be disabled if:
It has a ‘substantial adverse effect’ on their life, for example they regularly cannot focus on a task, or it takes them longer to complete tasks.
It lasts, or is expected to last, at least 12 months.
It affects their ability to do their normal day-to-day activities, for example interacting with people, following instructions or keeping set working times.
When making reasonable adjustments for mental health, employers should take into account things such as the job role, changes to health over time, and more importantly, one fit doesn’t necessarily work for all employees – we are all different.
All figures from the ACAS survey, which was carried out at the end of 2024, are from YouGov Plc. The sample size of the survey was 1,025 employees and the survey was carried out online. ACAS is the leading authority on workplace relations in the UK.
A Wellbeing Assessment is a great stating point for employers. The assessment looks at what has been done in the workplace and if there are any gaps in compliance and in good practice.
If you would like more information about mental health awareness sessions or about Wellbeing Assessment, please contact us.