Bath & North East Somerset Council has signed the Time to Change Pledge to mark World Mental Health Day, joining a growing number of companies who have signed the pledge.
The pledge demonstrates their commitment to taking action to improve attitudes towards mental health – overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health issues and offering more support in the workplace.
Chief Executive, Ashley Ayre, was joined at the signing by Cllr Tim Warren, Leader of the Council, together with staff from the Council and Virgin Care, and John Allen and Lisa Benham, representatives of the national campaign Time to Change – which is led by the charities MIND and Rethink Mental Illness.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, Ashley Ayre, said: “Mental health issues are common – nationwide, one in four people will experience a mental health issue and nine in ten of those who do say they have faced negative treatment as a result.
“This is why we feel it’s so important to have committed to this pledge and promote a better understanding of mental health, while offering support to our staff.
“We want everyone who works here to feel they can be open about their mental health and ask for help if they need it. I would encourage all local organisations to find out more about the pledge and to support their colleagues too.”
The pledge is supported by an action plan which includes mental health awareness training for managers, a network of Health Champions and information about the support available to promote good mental health.
Cllr Tim Warren, (Conservative, Mendip), Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Unlike having a physical condition – like a cough or a broken arm – a mental health condition can often go unseen by others. However, a mental health issue deserves our recognition and support just as much.
“People should not feel worried about discussing mental health – whether it’s their own or listening to the concerns of others.
“Therefore I’m pleased that the Council is committed to overcoming the stigma attached to mental health and ensuring that people living and working in Bath and North East Somerset feel they can discuss such issues openly and get the support they need to improve their mental health and well-being.”
