Mental Health Awareness Week has provided much needed publicity regarding those who suffer from conditions affecting their health and wellbeing. Almost 1 in 6 people* in the UK are experiencing mental health challenges in any one year. These can range from short-term conditions often triggered by a single life event to more serious, ongoing illnesses. (Mental Health Foundation, 2016)
After this week is over, however, the message still needs to be loud and clear that mental health is not something to be ashamed of or hidden away and employers are increasingly aware that ensuring the welfare of their employees in this area is a priority within their businesses.
The hospitality industry is reported as experiencing a particularly high occurrence of issues connected with stress, depression and anxiety. As referenced in The Caterer “8 out of 10 chefs experience poor mental health during their careers”. This is according to a report by Nestlé Professionals and CHEF, in collaboration with Censuswide. This report also states that out of 102 UK-based chefs surveyed, 48% believe that “not enough is being done to support their mental wellbeing in the workplace”.
In addition, the Morning Advertiser has reported that much more could be done to address the mental health of pub staff. It stated that over one in 10 pub workers has missed work because of a mental health issue, according to research by the Licensed Trade Charity.
Clearly, mental illness within the hospitality industry needs addressing. Here at CPL Online, we are currently exploring different avenues to provide support to those working in this sector and welcome collaboration with interested parties.
If you would like to join a session we are running in June, where you will become a mental health first-aider, please contact us. You can also find out more about our range of wellbeing online courses.
For more information, please contact Ryan Pulford by emailing ryan.pulford@cplonline.co.uk or calling 07585 509 391
* Mental Health Foundation, The Fundamental Facts Report.
