Time to Change: Suffolk GP Federation reinforces the importance of mental health

To mark World Mental Health Day (10th October 2019), the Suffolk GP Federation has signed the ‘Time to Change’ Employer Pledge. The Pledge is a commitment to changing the way we all think and act about mental health in the workplace.

This commitment is supported by a 12-month employer action plan detailing our plans for the coming year. These include asking our employees to share their experiences of mental health problems, ensuring the Senior Executive Team are trained in Mental Health First Aid, appointing a Mental Health & Wellbeing Lead and dedicating a section in the internal monthly newsletter to Mental Health.

The signing ceremony took place today at Riverside Clinic in Ipswich by Suffolk GP Federation’s Medical Director, Ruth Bushaway. In response to the Pledge, she said: “I am extremely proud that the Suffolk GP Federation has committed to such an important cause. I believe mental health is something that needs to be taken seriously. This Pledge demonstrates that the organisation values its employees and recognises the importance of creating an open, healthy working environment. It is vital that our employees feel comfortable talking about mental health and are aware of the support and advice available to them.”

Sue Baker, Director of Time to Change, said: “Many leading employers have found that making a strategic commitment to the mental wellbeing of their workforce not only has benefits for their staff but also benefits their bottom-line, improving productivity and staff retention. With one in six British workers experiencing mental illness, it’s time for businesses to work on their approach and start creating workplaces that promote good mental health for their staff.”

Time to Change is England’s biggest anti-stigma program led by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness and is funded by the Department of Health, Comic Relief and the Big Lottery Fund. The campaign aims to promote a better understanding of mental health issues in order to change public attitudes and combat discrimination.

Find out more about the campaign here.