Blogs

Blue Monday and brew Monday: How we support mental health

Blue Monday is often described as the most challenging day of the year. Dark mornings, colder weather and post-Christmas pressures can all affect how people feel. This day is an important opportunity to pause, check in and remind each other that no one has to face difficult moments alone.

That is why Brew Monday is also recognised, encouraging everyone to take time for a cuppa and a conversation. Sometimes a warm drink and a friendly chat can make a real difference.

Creating a culture where people feel safe

Supporting mental health starts with workplace culture. We are committed to creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves and confident speaking up if they are not feeling okay.

When people feel accepted, listened to and respected, they are more likely to thrive. Openness, kindness and authenticity sit at the heart of how we work, because good mental health begins with feeling safe and valued.

Support that is always close by

Challenges do not arrive on a schedule, which is why mental health support is always available.

Alongside site first aiders, there is a trained network of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) across the business. These colleagues are qualified to provide mental health first aid and workplace advocacy, offering confidential and compassionate support to anyone who needs it.

Team members can reach out directly, or be signposted by a manager or our People Team. The MHFA team also meet regularly so they can support one another and continue developing their skills.

A mental health confident employer

The business is proud to be a Mental Health Confident Employer, having signed the Mental Health Charter pledge. This provides access to specialist training, practical tools and resources that help strengthen mental wellbeing across the organisation.

Mental health is part of everyday working life here, not something that is only addressed when there is a problem. Wellbeing is protected, promoted and prioritised.

Making support easy to access

Team members can access a wide range of mental health resources through the online learning platform. This includes:

The health hero employee assistance programme
The Aviva-Digicare app with 6 mental health consultations per year
Mindfulness and wellbeing tools
Coping calendars and self-help resources
Wellness action plans for individuals and managers

Signposts to external support organisations are also shared regularly, helping colleagues find the right help for their individual needs.

Listening to our people

Understanding how people feel is essential. Through regular surveys, job chats and team talks, a clear picture of wellbeing across the business is built. These insights help shape workplace strategies and ensure support remains relevant and effective.

Lived experience of mental health challenges is recognised and valued. Mental health is part of the organisation’s diversity and inclusion approach, and discrimination of any kind is not tolerated.

Brew Monday and the power of connection

Loneliness is one of the biggest contributors to poor mental health, particularly at this time of year. Brew Monday is a simple but powerful reminder to take time to connect.

Colleagues are encouraged to use this day to reach out, whether that means chatting with someone new, catching up with a teammate or simply asking how someone is doing.

A social engagement platform is also used to help teams stay connected, share positive moments and support one another wherever they are based.

Supporting mental health every day

Blue Monday and Brew Monday highlight the importance of looking out for each other, but this support continues all year round. Through a people-focused culture, trained Mental Health First Aiders and a wide range of wellbeing initiatives, everyone is encouraged to feel supported, heard and valued.

Because when people are cared for, they can be at their best for themselves, their teams and the people they serve 💜💚