Appendix Two – Support and Accreditation Schemes
The following is a list of schemes that your organisation may consider joining that will help plan and implement approaches to support employees’ mental health.
Schemes in the UK
Mental Health Charter Membership – started in 2020, the scheme requires a public commitment to supporting mental health in the workplace. Members are offered support to develop actions plans, including the creation of an employee champion scheme. They also have access to training and networking opportunities. https://mentalhealth-charter.co.uk/
Mindful Employer – the scheme offers a charter to which organisations can become signatories, indicating their commitment to support mental health. This is supported by training and resources, as well as access to an EAP through Mindful Employer+ membership. https://www.mindfulemployer.dpt.nhs.uk/
Workplace Wellbeing Charter – A national accreditation scheme aimed at establishing a broad commitment to health and wellbeing, with mental health being one of eight standards to meet. The process begins with a self-assessment, before you are provided with support by consultants to develop an action plan. Organisations then need to complete an external audit to achieve accreditation. https://healthatworkcentre.org.uk/wellbeing-charter/
Mind Partnership – A corporate sponsorship program from one of the UK’s leading mental health charities. It can provide a mutually beneficial relationship where the charity receives financial support, while the partner organisation can receive tailored expert support to help develop their mental health programme, particularly around awareness raising initiatives. Mind also offer organisations the opportunity to sign their free Mental Health at Work Commitment that covers 6 standards for mental health support in the workplace. https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/corporate-partnerships/ https://www.mind.org.uk/news-campaigns/our-campaigns/mental-health-at-work-commitment/
Schemes in Ireland
The Shine Workplace Programme – A structured six-step framework designed to help organisations embed mental health awareness and support into everyday practice. The programme takes organisations through a process of training, policy development, and staff engagement, with the aim of achieving accreditation. https://www.shine.ie/get-support/support-in-the-workplace
Mental Health Ireland Workplace Training – A workplace training scheme offering a range of workshops aimed at promoting mental health and wellbeing whilst offering attendees practical skills and knowledge to help organisations foster a culture of support and collaboration, deepen resilience, and reduce stress. https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/training/workplace-training/