All posts by actionmentalhealth

A woman smiling and reading on a tablet. There is overlaid text which reads: How can employers improve wellbeing in the workplace?

How can employers improve wellbeing in the workplace?

The CIPD’s 2025 Health and Wellbeing at Work report reveals a worrying rise in sickness absence, with the average UK employee taking nearly 2 working weeks off per year – an increase of 4 days per years since before the pandemic.

Behind these figures lies a critical issue – mental ill-health continues to be the leading cause of long-term absence, with stress, anxiety, burnout and depression not only driving absence but also impacting productivity, morale and wellbeing across sectors. It’s never been more important that employers provide meaningful, impactful and preventative support.

Two colleagues having a conversation at a desk.

That’s where Action Mental Health’s Workplace Wellbeing Hub comes in. Here’s 5 ways the Workplace Wellbeing Hub can help employers to build a healthy and thriving workforce:

1. Providing Personalised and Impactful Support

1 in 5 UK adults struggle with a mental health condition. At Action Mental Health, we know that behind every statistic there is a person – a friend, a colleague, a partner, a parent – each facing unique challenges. That’s why the Workplace Wellbeing Hub focuses on personalised and targeted interventions. As a Hub member, your organisation will receive a Workplace Wellbeing Assessment, enabling us to understand the challenges and barriers your team faces and implement bespoke recommendations and interventions to ensure that employees’ wellness needs are met.

2. Building Stress Resilience and Coping Skills

Stress and burnout are now among the top drivers of absence, often leading to more chronic and complex mental health concerns. With employees frequently reporting feeling overwhelmed by increasing workloads, change and personal pressures, it’s vital that employers take a preventative approach. As a Hub member, your organisation has access to 4 live and recorded webinars, alongside face-to-face training and an extensive library of learning resources. Each training and resource is developed by mental health experts to ensure that your team have access to evidence-based techniques to manage stress and build resilience both inside and outside of the workplace.

A man taking notes while on a video call on a laptop.

3. Equipping Managers and HR to Support Teams Effectively

Managers and wellbeing leads are often the first point of contact for those struggling with their mental health, yet many lack the training and confidence to act effectively. The Workplace Wellbeing Hub includes access to a specialised “HR Hub”, guiding wellbeing and HR professionals through best practice on a range of workplace mental health scenarios. This includes facilitating compassionate return to work interviews, implementing effective reasonable adjustments, responding to workplace incidents and providing support for a range of mental health concerns. You’ll also have access to Action Mental Health’s wellbeing experts as extended team members. Whenever you need guidance on how best to support your team, we’re simply a phone-call away.

4. Embedding Preventative Measures Within Company Culture

CIPD’s 2025 report highlights that the majority of organisations continue to take reactive measures to tackle employee mental health. In contrast, Action Mental Health walks alongside you to embed best practice and preventative measures within your organisational policies and procedures. Whether you’re hoping to implement a new mental health policy or integrate wellbeing champions as an internal support structure, our consultancy services ensure that you are supported each step of the way.

Three colleagues chatting and smiling in an office.

5. Improving Access to Support Services

Reaching out for mental health support can feel daunting at first. The Workplace Wellbeing Hub’s “Signposting Hub” is a fantastic way for employees to understand and access support from organisations across Northern Ireland. Hub members can also avail of Action Mental Health’s BACP accredited counselling services, providing high-quality counselling for a range of mental health concerns and stressors.

Take Action Today

The CIPD report draws a clear conclusion – mental ill-health is an increasing challenge for UK employees and employers cannot afford to ignore it. Action Mental Health’s Workplace Wellbeing Hub provides the training, resources and interventions needed to reduce absence, support recovery and build a workplace where people can thrive.

Find out more about the Workplace Wellbeing Hub, or contact [email protected].

References:

Read CIPD’s 2025 Health and Wellbeing at work report.

Office closure, August Bank Holiday

August Closure

Action Mental Health are closed for the bank holiday on Monday 25th August 2025. We will reopen on Tuesday 26th August.

If you are in crisis, please contact Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. Trained counsellors are available by phone 24/7.

Regards,
Action Mental Health

Maria’s Story- SkillSET Programme

Maria began her journey with Action Mental Health Foyle in January 2025, enrolling on the SkillSET programme with a clear ambition — to open her own skin care business. As a lone parent, she carefully prioritised her time, starting with the induction programme, where she was supported to develop a personalised training plan outlining the practical steps to turn her aspiration into reality.

From the outset, Maria immersed herself in both accredited and non-accredited pre-employment training to understand employer and customer expectations, develop professional standards, and strengthen her workplace skills. She successfully achieved her OCN Level 2 in Principles of Customer Care, completed a six-week Career Preparation course, and undertook the eight-week Biz Basics programme. Each stage of her learning was underpinned by mental health awareness training to ensure her wellbeing remained supported throughout her journey.

On 6th July, Maria proudly launched her skin care business, Ethereal Bliss, during an Action Mental Health business start-up event held in the ‘Garden of Reflection’ in L’Derry. Alongside five other clients, she embarked on her path to entrepreneurship.

Action Mental Health SkillSET client, Maria, at her business stall.

With the continued guidance of her Key Worker, Allison, Maria applied for and secured additional support to grow her business. Her determination paid off when she was selected for the prestigious AIB–TU Dublin Self-Employment Course for Persons with Disabilities — outshining 40 applicants to secure one of just 20 places, each valued at €1,250.

This fully sponsored programme covers her TU Dublin course fees and provides access to essential business development tools, including a license for specialist online software to create her business plan. She will also benefit from a dedicated Business Mentor and support from the Open Doors Initiative, offering further opportunities to expand her enterprise.

Reflecting on her experience, Maria shared:

I cannot stress enough the numerous benefits in engaging with Action Mental Health SkillSet project for enhancing employability and career prospects for people with mental ill-health. The SkillSET programme provided me with opportunities for personal and social development, built my confidence, and improved essential workplace skills. I’ve gained relevant qualifications, valuable experience, and the support needed to progress towards my entrepreneurial dream.

SkillSET is an employment programme providing support to adults with health conditions and/or disabilities. It is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Action Mental Health delivers the programme across Northern Ireland, helping people with mental health issues to build their skills through education, training and access to volunteering, further education and the workplace. If you would like to know more information, or enquire about our SkillSET programme.

Minister of Health hears first-hand of life-saving and life-changing services on offer at Action Mental Health Foyle

Minister of Health, Mike Nesbitt MLA visited Action Mental Health Foyle this week to hear first-hand just how vital the services are to local people facing mental health challenges. The Minister met with both staff and clients as he received a tour of the charity’s new base in the city centre. Action Mental Health has been providing support in Foyle for over thirty years, but last year relocated to Pump Street, a much more central and accessible site for clients.

Clients at Action Mental Health Foyle are supported through the charity’s Mental Health Recovery & Employability Service which offers a mix of personal development, social and recreational activities, as well as accredited training aimed at supporting people to recover from mental ill-health, rebuild their lives and to find employment.

Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, listened intently to stories from clients who told him how much the service means to them, and how, for many being referred to Action Mental Health has been a life-saving and life-changing experience.

He said: “I am very aware of the vital role that the community and voluntary sector play in the provision of mental health services at a local level. I have been impressed with the range of person-centred services and support on offer to clients of all ages at the centre, working in partnership with local GPs and the Western Trust, in order to ensure that help and advice is available to those who need it.”

Action Mental Health Chief Executive, David Babington said, “We want thank the Minister for taking time to visit our Foyle service to meet with staff and clients. Our services offer a key support to statutory mental health services right across Northern Ireland, services that we know are under enormous pressure. We discussed with the Minister ways in which organisations such as Action Mental Health can work even more closely with the statutory mental health sector to improve outcomes for people in need of support.

“For anyone who is looking for information on how to access support through Action Mental Health, there is more details on our website at https://www.amh.org.uk/services/

July Closure

Action Mental Health are closed for the bank holiday on Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th July 2025. We will reopen on Wednesday 16th July.

If you are in crisis, please contact Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. Trained counsellors are available by phone 24/7.

Regards,
Action Mental Health

Three men aged around 60 smiling and laughing with their arms round each other.

Men’s Health Week 2025: Why your mental health is just as important as physical health

Men’s Health Week (9-15 June) is a vital opportunity to shine a light on all aspects of wellbeing for men.

Three men aged around 60 laughing and smiling with their arms round each other.

While there is, rightly, a huge focus on physical health, awareness of your mental health matters just as much. Just as you wouldn’t ignore a persistent cough or a back injury, it’s important to pay attention to ongoing stress, low mood, or anxiety.

To mark Men’s Health Week, we’re exploring why it’s so important for men in Northern Ireland to get support for mental health issues.

Note: This article mentions suicide.

Men’s mental health in Northern Ireland

One in five adults in Northern Ireland are experiencing signs of mental ill-health. However, men are statistically much less likely than women to ask for help with mental health concerns1.

As a result, men in Northern Ireland are disproportionately affected by suicide. The most recent figures indicate that in 2021, 74% of total suicide deaths were males1.

Many may grow up believing they have to “just get on with it” or “keep the head down”. This cultural mind-set, while often rooted in resilience, can create stigma around mental health. It also becomes a barrier to getting the support that’s needed. This can even have a knock-on effect on your physical health.

A man aged around 40 talking to a counsellor.

How are mental health and physical health linked?

Mental and physical health often go hand-in-hand. People experiencing mental health issues are more likely to develop physical health conditions, and vice versa2.

That’s not to mention the physical side effects of mental health problems themselves. Anxiety might lead to nausea, headaches, or muscle pain, for example3

Likewise though, your mental wellbeing will benefit when you look after your physical health – whether through exercise or eating well. You might be surprised by how much a short 10 minute walk can boost your mood.

What can I do for my mental health?

Looking after your mental health doesn’t necessarily mean seeing a professional straight away (although that’s always a good option). Sometimes, it starts with small changes:

  • Talk to someone you trust. A friend, a partner, a colleague – sometimes just saying something out loud takes the pressure off.
  • Check in with yourself regularly. How are you really doing? Naming your feelings is the first step to managing them.
  • Make time for things that you enjoy. Whether it’s going for a walk with the dog, joining a five-a-side team, or cooking your favourite meal, regularly taking time for yourself can make a big difference.
  • Reach out if you’re struggling. There’s no shame in asking for help from your GP, a helpline, or a local charity like Action Mental Health.
A young man smiling. His friend has a supportive hand on his shoulder.

Whether you’re 18 or 80, a farmer, a builder, a teacher, or a stay-at-home dad, no one is immune to life’s challenges. Everyone has mental health. Looking after it and knowing when to ask for support helps us to lead better and fuller lives.  

Where can I get support?

Action Mental Health:

  • Our Men’s Sheds are an ideal place for men aged 50+ to learn and share new skills or just come along for a good chat and cup of tea.
  • We also offer a high-quality, professional counselling service for adults, young people and children in Northern Ireland.

Self-help resources:

  • Men’s Health Forum, organisers of Men’s Health Week, offer self-help resources, including a Man MOT for the Mind.
  • Create your own Mind Plan with this NHS tool.

Helplines:

  • If you are in crisis or distress, Lifeline operates 24/7– you can call them and talk to a trained counsellor on: 0808 808 8000.
  • The Samaritans can also be contacted 24/7 by calling: 116 123.
  • For young people, Papyrus operate HOPELINE247 at: 0800 068 41 41. Contact Childline on: 0800 1111.

References

  1. Mental Health Champion (2023). Mental Health in Northern Ireland: Fundamental Facts 2023
  2. Mental Health Foundation (2022). Physical Health and Mental Health
  3. NHS (2025). Signs of anxiety
A group of staff and participants from SES Workable (NI) gathered outside Belfast City Hall.

Supported Employment Solutions (SES) celebrate Annual Big Lunch event

A group of particpants, staff, and employers gathered in front of the SES and Cedar banners outside  Belfast City Hall .

All 7 SES Partners (Action Mental Health, Cedar, Orchardville, Mencap, Now Group, AdaptNI, and RNIB) came together on Tuesday 3rd June to celebrate their Annual Big Lunch event. This year the event took place in the grounds of City Hall Belfast, and what a fantastic celebration it was! 

SES Workable (NI) participants, employers and staff were proud to be joined by Mark Young and Diane Ellison from the Department for Communities and the newly appointed Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Tracy Kelly (DUP).

The Lord Mayor of Belfast standing with staff from SES outside Belfast City Hall.
Councillor Tracy Kelly, Lord Mayor of Belfast in attendance at the Big Lunch event.

It was an afternoon filled with connection, community and celebration of everything that SES makes possible across Northern Ireland through our supported employment ethos. SES currently support up to 300 participants with disabilities and health conditions in workplaces across the public, private and community sectors through a range of 1-1 tailored interventions. The programme also provides support and guidance to employers.

A group of participants and staff from Workable (NI) in front of the SES banner at the Big Lunch event.
Staff and participants celebrating the event.

Patricia Kelly, Workable (NI) Service Manager with Action Mental Health said:

I am delighted with the success of this year’s SES Big Lunch Event.  Our SES staff across the partner organisations have worked very hard to co-ordinate proceedings to ensure our afternoon was a success. In the true spirit of the Big Lunch ethos, our aim was to come together, nurture a sense of belonging and resilience, and to provide some valuable ‘time-out’ for our clients and employers. I think we certainly achieved all of this on the day, alongside raising awareness of supported employment strategies.”

Thank you to everyone who joined us – together we are building inclusive workplaces.

Workable (NI) is funded by Department for Communities. Find out more about SES.

Step Up for the 500k Action Mental Health NetWalk Challenge at Stormont Estate

Action Mental Health (AMH) has teamed up with Dr Jonny Bloomfield for a free all-day NetWalking event at Stormont Estate on Friday 27 June 2025. With a target of 500k steps this charity NetWalk will raise funds for vital mental health services in Northern Ireland, while helping raise awareness and well-being.

Beginning his career as a fitness coach at Ulster Rugby before becoming a physiologist at the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland, Jonny is well knownas a health and performance coach specialising in stress, sleep, exercise & nutrition. He has 20 years’ experience working in areas of high performance, across different industries and a background in sports science and exercise physiology.

So what exactly is NetWalking? Simply, it is networking while you walk, with this event targeted at anyone who fancies an informal stroll and the opportunity to make new acquaintances while raising funds for mental health. Ticking two of the ‘Take 5’ elements for mental health and well-being; connecting with others and exercising in a green space, NetWalking is widely recognised for its many feel good restorative properties and sense of community.

The concept which originated from ditching the office in favour of talking while walking, has proved very popular as it combines shared experience and the ability to have a conversation without distraction. In the world of business development, NetWalking has quite literally gained a foothold, bringing business people together away from the traditional confines of whiteboards, boardrooms and online meetings, so often associated with traditional networking.


Jonny said, “I’m delighted to be involved with this free NetWalking charity event which will help raise money for mental health services in Northern Ireland. Our usual last Friday of the month netwalk started post-Covid with a regular 10am event from Stormont Estate’s yellow ‘chatty benches’. It is really popular with new people joining every month. We take the route through the woods and then up the hill in front of Stormont, with each person usually clocking up 5000 steps – approximately 3-4 miles. It is an informal event where people are encouraged to partner up.”

 “Adding, the AMH charity NetWalk on Friday 27 June 2025 will start at the yellow chatty benches just inside the main gates. This special event offers up the opportunity to be involved in one to five netwalks with starting times of 8am, 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm.  We have a sign-up target of 100 people to collectively achieve 500k steps so please share this event with your family, friends and networks.”

Testimonials from the Last Friday Netwalk at Stormont –

“The Netwalking group has become my benchmark for the month, a space I always look

forward to. It’s welcoming, uplifting, and Jonny sets such a warm, inclusive tone that

meaningful conversation just flows. It is connection, community, and a breath of fresh air all

in one!” – Regular Netwalker, Amanda Barr, Breakup & Divorce Coach

“So glad I joined the Netwalking group for my first dander round Stormont Estate Friday

30th May. Such a welcoming and friendly bunch. Got to have some interesting chats and

meet like-minded people.” – 1 st Timer May 2025, Benny McClure, E M Gray & Co

“Netwalking has been amazing for me. I would usually avoid traditional networking as it can

feel stuffy and forced. This is the exact opposite. Casual and friendly with everyone genuinely

nice and wanting to support each other.” – Regular Netwalker, Matt Greer, Navigate IFA


AMH Fundraising and Engagement Officer, Iain McCarthy said, “As walking and talking helps generate conversation organically, this method of exercise and chatting is a catalyst for creativity, as the rhythm of walking helps with idea formation. Additionally, this informal meeting method helps build connections on a level playing field, making it an enjoyable but dynamic experience. It’s well-being that goes beyond the confines of walls. This event is for everyone from all walks of life and for most fitness levels.”

To get involved please sign up as an individual or group at [email protected] 

To donate online please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/netwalk-stormont