The three words that can make a huge difference to workplace wellbeing

How are you?  

As we progress through Mental Health Awareness Week (15th – 21st May), we’re focusing on the importance of prioritising Health and Wellbeing in the workplace. As one of the greatest assets of the business, the workforce is at heart of activity and is central to the success of many businesses, especially SMEs, so consideration for their physical, mental and financial wellbeing is paramount.  

The Cost-of-Living crisis has put additional pressure on both businesses and their workforce. As a result, workplace wellbeing is front of mind as SMEs look to support employees and nurture talent by concentrating on workplace culture, strategy and framework.  

Assess the Current Position  

Do you have wellbeing strategy? Do you have an open-door policy?  Do you regularly communicate with your team?  

Employees who feel supported, informed, and included are more likely to share concerns and worries. By taking the time to understand your workplace culture and landscape, you can identify how to support, nurture, and inspire your team. Conducting an anonymous survey can provide valuable insight and feedback to assist with the development of a wellbeing strategy and the best approach to engaging with your team. Check out the recommended areas to focus on to improve your workplace wellbeing. 

Focus Areas  

• Communication is Key  
  Start conversations, ask the question “How are you?”, these three words can ignite a channel of communication and insight - you don’t know what is going on with someone unless you engage with them on a regular basis.  
  
  
• Be Accessible  
  Establish the right environment to engage and have conversations in the first place. Break down any barriers and look to appoint Wellbeing Champions who are approachable, trustworthy, and comfortable having conversations with their colleagues.  
  
  
• Lead the Way  
  Leaders inspire, motivate, and lead the way. Stay in tune and build trust with the workforce by making a conscious effort to be amongst the team.   
  
  
• Signpost to External Support  
  Take the time to audit the support that you have got available within your business; Wellbeing Champion, Mental Health First Aider, Employee Assistance Programme, and signpost to external support for the areas that you are unable to fulfil.  
  
  

How Skills for Growth – SME Support can help you 

Delivered by the GC Business Growth Hub, The Skills for Growth – SME Support programme is focused on identifying and filling occupational skills gaps in Greater Manchester’s SMEs. With access to over 400 fully funded courses, bitesize e-learning and dedicated Skills Coach support, there are options available for all areas, all industries, and all futures. 

Fully Funded Training Options  

With options covering Leadership, Management, Communication, the ability to upskill and develop in these areas can improve the skills that can assist with improving the workplace wellbeing and culture. Find out more about the GM Skills Map, Greater Manchester's dedicated online training portal, featuring all the fully funded, part funded and commercial courses available. GM Skills Map 

Bitesize ‘E’ Learning  

There’s Health and Wellbeing, Financial Planning and Communication courses on the bitesize ‘E’ Learning platform. These flexible on-demand courses can improve soft skills and be accessed at any time and on any device, giving the learner full control of the courses that they want to complete. Discover more about the benefits of Bitesize 'E' Learning

Signposting to Health and Wellbeing Support  

Our newly launched Health and Wellbeing brochure, gives learners a taste of the Health and Wellbeing options available but also signposting to further support available in Greater Manchester. Health and Wellbeing Brochure