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In support of Men’s International Day, hygiene specialist Christeyns UK is increasing its focus on the wellbeing and of its male workforce.
Christeyns realised the importance of championing mental health in the work place many years ago, identifying several training activities, resources, and assistance programmes that are now successfully in place across its UK group of companies.
There is however a certain stigma around men’s mental health and Christeyns recognises the challenges many of its team members face working for long periods on highly technical projects often on their own. The firm believes that providing support and resources for men is essential for creating a positive, sustainable workplace culture.
In order to provide a more open forum for discussion and support, this year’s winter Laundry Division Conference included a session on mental wellbeing, with specific emphasis on the male field team members. A key highlight was a Psychological Safety session, where the discussion focused on creating an open culture that encourages people to ask for help, an important first step towards supporting mental health.
Christeyns also recently welcomed Andys Man Club representatives to their Bradford facility so as to better understand the issues and assistance available and help focus their own company support mechanisms.
Established in 2016 by Elaine, Andy’s Mum, and Luke, Andy’s Brother-in-Law, Andy’s Man Club was founded in memory of Andy, with a mission to offer men a comfortable environment to share their experiences. It hopes to drive awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage men to seek the support they need.
“In our business, health and safety is an absolute priority,” states Christeyns Operations Director Justin Kerslake, himself a Mental Health First Aider. “Mental health wellbeing forms part of this agenda and is just as important as physical illness. We want to ensure that everyone, including our male workforce, know that there is support and that it is #okaytotalk.”
