Mental Health & Wellness Policy¶
FooEngine is committed to promoting positive mental wellbeing. Mental health affects how we think, feel and behave, and we all play a role in supporting both our own wellbeing and that of our colleagues.
This policy explains:
- How we encourage open conversations about mental health
- What support may be available
- How managers and employees can work together to maintain a healthy working environment
Talking About Mental Health¶
We recognise that speaking about mental health can feel difficult. When you are ready to talk, we will listen.
Employees are encouraged to speak in the first instance with:
- Their line manager
- Or senior management if they prefer
All conversations will be handled sensitively and confidentially, unless there is an immediate risk to you or others.
No employee will be treated unfairly for raising mental health concerns.
What Happens Next¶
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. You remain in control of how much you wish to share and what support you feel would help.
Support may include:
- Temporary adjustments to workload or responsibilities
- Flexible working arrangements
- Changes to communication methods or frequency
- Short-term changes to working hours
Any agreed adjustments will be discussed and confirmed appropriately.
Company Commitment¶
If you raise your own or a colleague's mental health concerns, FooEngine commits to:
- Listening without judgement
- Treating information sensitively and confidentially
- Discussing reasonable support options
- Taking concerns of bullying or harassment seriously under the Dignity & Respect Policy
Medical and Professional Support¶
Where appropriate, FooEngine may suggest:
- Speaking with your GP or medical professional
- Occupational health advice
- Counselling or therapy
Financial support for counselling or medical assessments may be considered on a case-by-case basis at management discretion.
Absence Related to Mental Health¶
Time off for mental health reasons is treated in line with the Sickness & Return to Work Policy.
You are encouraged (though not required) to indicate if absence relates to mental health so that appropriate support can be offered. All such information is treated confidentially.
Manager Responsibilities¶
Managers are expected to:
- Communicate regularly and openly
- Be aware of workload pressures
- Encourage regular breaks and use of annual leave
- Look out for signs of stress or distress
- Raise concerns sensitively where appropriate
- Consider reasonable adjustments when needed
Where appropriate, managers may receive guidance on supporting employee wellbeing.
Employee Responsibilities¶
All employees are encouraged to:
- Take care of their own wellbeing
- Raise concerns early where possible
- Support colleagues respectfully
- Take regular annual leave
- Maintain healthy work-life boundaries
- Speak to management if work pressures become unmanageable
Supporting a Colleague¶
If you are concerned about a colleague's mental health, you are encouraged to:
- Speak with them sensitively
- Encourage them to speak with their manager
- Raise concerns with management if you believe someone may be at risk
Practical Steps for Good Wellbeing¶
Positive steps that can support mental wellbeing include:
- Taking regular breaks
- Using annual leave throughout the year
- Maintaining healthy sleep patterns
- Staying physically active
- Managing workload expectations
- Keeping in touch with colleagues
- Seeking support early when needed
External Support Resources (UK)¶
Employees may find the following organisations helpful:
- Mind: www.mind.org.uk — 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans: www.samaritans.org — 116 123
- NHS 111: www.nhs.uk/111
- In an emergency: Call 999
No Discrimination¶
No employee will be discriminated against or disadvantaged due to mental health conditions. Any inappropriate behaviour will be addressed under the Dignity & Respect Policy.