Ahead of World Mental Health Day next month, Solent Mind and Business South have joined forces to launch a new partnership aimed at raising awareness of the importance of mental health in the workplace.

Sally Arscott, CEO of Solent Mind said: "Business South is an ideal partner to connect with more businesses across Hampshire, as it has over 120 champions. We are excited to be a part of the Workforce South action group, which brings together professionals involved in all aspects of the people agenda, to make positive changes."

A 2022 Deloitte study* found that poor mental health costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year and 61% of staff who left in 2021 or were planning to leave in 2022 said it was due to poor mental health.

The partnership will leverage the expertise of both organisations to create a positive culture around mental health, support staff, and remove the stigma that is often associated with mental health issues.

Leigh-Sara Timberlake, Group CEO of Business South said: “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Solent Mind, the leading mental health charity in Hampshire. With their expertise in workplace wellbeing training, employment services and corporate partnerships, they are the perfect collaborator to help us and our champions create a positive mental health culture.”

This collaboration is a significant step forward in promoting mental health within the local business community, and it is hoped that it will help to encourage other organisations to follow suit.

By working together, Solent Mind and Business South will be able to provide businesses with the resources they need to create a supportive and inclusive environment for their employees. This includes training and education programs, as well as resources to help employees deal with mental health issues.

The goal of this partnership is to create a workplace culture that values mental health and supports the wellbeing of all employees.

Do you want to promote better wellbeing in your workplace? Get in touch with our workplace wellbeing training team on training@solentmind.org.uk.

*Poor mental health costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year | Deloitte UK