Cowes-based technology company Yokogawa Marex has appointed a mental health first aider as part of its commitment to supporting its workforce as the business continues to emerge from Covid restrictions.
Having undertaken bespoke Mental Health First Aid England training, financial accountant and HR officer Joanne Westmore is now the first point of call for staff who may need extra confidential support and advice, adding to the strong Yokogawa Wellbeing Team.
It is the first time the Isle of Wight branch has appointed such as role which is very much in line with the company’s key goal of creating a fulfilling and healthy environment for employees.
Divisional director Wayne Matthews said: “Not only do we want to be an employer that recognises the importance of mental health, we are an outward-looking company keen to reduce the stigma and improve understanding of the issue so people don’t delay seeking help if they need it.
“It is important that employees feel comfortable reaching out if they have a problem and Joanne is now there for any staff member who may need such extra confidential support and advice.
“During this unprecedented time, it has been vital for us as a company to continue to invest in the wellbeing of our staff, making sure each member feels valued and supported when working from home. We recognise that each staff member will have different needs and requirements and Joanne will be there for whoever needs support.
Joanne said: “The pandemic and remote working has been a challenge and impacts staff in different ways, so we are keen to emphasise how important it is for staff to help and support each other as colleagues and ensure that if anyone feels they are struggling or needs additional support, they can take the first step by talking to me.”
Microsoft Teams has enabled staff to stay connected, with a dedicated wellbeing channel that is updated regularly with tips and advice.
Joanne added: “Yokogawa Marex understands that mental health is just as important as physical health within the workplace, especially if you are working from home. Despite restrictions easing, health and wellbeing will remain a priority, and there are plans to expand and develop the Well Being provision more over the coming months.
IW High Sheriff James Attrill, who is promoting the importance of mental health in the workplace during his term of office, welcomed the move.
He said: “Yokogawa Marex contacted me wanting to follow up on my High Sheriff's campaign to encourage more Island businesses to adopt better mental health provision for their employees - I was glad to hear that they had appointed a mental health first aider as part of that programme. The Island has a strong caring community and I am sure this is one amongst many companies thinking seriously about the well-being of their workforce - most particularly as we start to recover from the Covid Pandemic."
PUBLISHED IN ISLAND BUSINESS MAGAZINE (October 2021)
Yokogawa Marex recognised for supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
The October edition of the Island Business Magazine is available online and features an article on the importance of Mental Health in the Workplace (Page 22) https://issuu.com/iwchamber/docs/island_business_-_october_2021/24
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