Mindful Employer network celebrates 10 years in Swindon

Since its formation the initiative has attracted popular speakers and enjoyed great conference venues courtesy of local hotels and businesses. Delegates not only benefit from the free courses and awareness sessions but also provide feedback on topics they feel the network should concentrate on in the future.

Becki Robertson, Head of HR at Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd, said: “Honda of the UK Manufacturing recognises the value of a healthy and engaged workforce. The lively and positive employer network created by Swindon Mindful Employer Network is a fantastic achievement. It has been a pleasure to work alongside SMEN and we look forward to our continued relationship in the future.”

Martin Nugent, Employee Relations Manager at The National Trust said: “The National Trust has attended the Swindon Mindful Employer Network over last few years and found the events both interesting and very relevant to our organisation. Having healthy staff and volunteers is crucial and appreciating the impact of mental health on our workplaces is key to our operations. We are looking forward to learning more from the network and other employers in the next 10 years and our congratulations to everyone involved in its success.”

Greg Pirt, Welfare Advisor, Natural Environment Research Council: “The Natural Environment Research Council has attended network events since 2009 and we have found these to be beneficial in ensuring that we develop our understanding of the importance of providing healthier workplaces. These ensure we are keeping up to date with best practice through the informative and diverse event and conference sessions as well as the ability to network local organisations and develop interaction as appropriate in the Swindon and North Wiltshire area. They also help us to maintain our ability to ensure we are providing the best possible and timely advice to our staff and managers. We would encourage employers of all sectors to get involved during the 10 years celebration of the Swindon Mindful Employer Network.”

Natalie Gilhooley, Employee Engagement & Wellbeing Manager, Nationwide Building Society, said: “We proudly became a Mindful Employer Charter signatory nearly 8 years ago and keenly support the Swindon network with hosting and presenting at events and printing publicity materials. The network has increased our understanding of mental ill health and its impact on our employees at work. This has helped us to further develop our policies and practices in this support of our employees’ wellbeing. Its also a great way to forge relationships with other organisations and share best practice and experience. With great speakers and interesting topics, we’re really looking forward to the next 10 years.”

Network Deputy Chairman Mike Godfrey of Business West said: “The Swindon Mindful Employer Network has established itself on the local scene as very popular with employers and business people and the interest shown is testament to the importance of wellbeing in the workplace. Many businesses have benefitted from the knowledge gained from attending the network, and others have got very involved in supporting the effort to create positive workplaces for people suffering mental health issues. We are always grateful for businesses also offering to host our events which have over a hundred representatives attending.”

This Swindon network is hosted by Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind and funded by Public Health at Swindon Borough Council.

For more information about this event please contact: smen@sgmind.org.uk