THE Swindon Mindful Employer Network is relaunching to help tackle a growing mental health crisis.

The network will help employers support the mental wellbeing of their staff as around one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health issue this year.

Swindon and Wiltshire initiative director at Business West Ian Larrard said: "We work with thousands of businesses, many of whom will have experienced difficulties with staff mental health and wellbeing in the past.

“Part of the role of the initiative is to help guide and challenge businesses to do the right thing, meaning that we are a vocal champion for removing the stigma of mental health and enhancing wellbeing for everyone that works in Swindon.

“Accordingly, we are delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Swindon Borough Council and Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind to deliver the network.

"SMEN will allow us to widen business engagement on the issue and better signpost businesses and individuals to the latest advice, information and guidance.”

The Mindful Employer initiative initially launched in 2004 around the UK. Swindon Borough Council and Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind will fund the relaunched network in Swindon.

Swindon Mind CEO Hazel Howe said: “We are proud to host the network, enabling the opportunity for employers and employees to access expert support, advice and understanding on mental health.

“Businesses are increasingly aware of the role that they play in terms of promoting positive mental health and wellbeing.

“This is a fantastic forum to help broaden participation in and open up the conversation about this very important issue. Through partnering with Business West, we will be able to grow the network and reach more businesses in need of advice across Swindon and Wiltshire.”

The network will relaunch on October 14 with the first of five events at Alexandra House featuring three guest speakers.

Senior immigration lawyer at Osborne Clarke Helga Butler will discuss the impact of Brexit on staff morale and wellbeing, Dormakaba senior vice president Steve Bewick will explain why putting people first is crucial when managing change. and Faye Whitmarsh from Nationwide,will outline the steps her company has taken to promote staff wellbeing during times of economic uncertainty.