At our Staff Conference in January, we told everyone about our plans to keep our wellbeing offer under constant review to ensure that it is as vibrant, relevant and engaging as possible. Particular attention has been paid to ensuring that the offer is more visible and easily accessible for everyone going forward. 

Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) run by Health Assured is an enhanced platform providing staff with increased and wider access to regularly updated health articles, webinars, practical information and support materials which can be accessed via the EAP website and app. We also will be continuing to roll out a range of other activities such as free health checks, mindfulness workshops and learning lunches for all staff members.

Absence Management: A new approach

The University recently launched a more positive approach to Absence Management, which ensures that anyone experiencing illness due to mental health is fully supported by HR and line managers, through a "day one" reporting mechanism. This was supplemented by Mental Health Awareness training delivered by Leeds Mind.

This proactive approach has meant that mental health absences at Leeds Trinity are now 3.4% lower than the sector target, with the HR team supporting employees returning to work after suffering from complex and serious mental health illness.

Mental Health First Aid Training

In March 2019, the University facilitated 16 staff to be trained and accredited in Mental Health First Aid. Due to popular demand, a further 15 staff were trained and accredited in June 2019. Approximately 10% of our employees are now trained Mental Health First Aiders.

Mental Health First Aiders can be contacted during work hours to talk about anything that might be causing staff or students concern and can help point them in the right direction for further support as appropriate. All conversations are strictly confidential.

Staff and their family members can also access the Employee Assistance Programme 24 hours a day, seven days a week for free, confidential advice. This service offers support and guidance with everyday issues, including legal and financial matters, health queries and relationship worries.

Leeds City Council's Anchors Network

The University is part of the Anchors Network, an initiative set up by Leeds City Council in partnership with local public sector organisations to promote inclusive growth in the Leeds area. The network's objective is to maximise local benefits from spending, services and recruitment strategies across Leeds.

Leeds Trinity was invited to the network based on our leading HR strategies. We have been used as a case study for Employee Health and Wellbeing in recognition of our approach towards supporting physical and mental health in employment, wellbeing and resilience.

Mindful Employer

We have also recently become a Chartered Mindful Employer, in partnership with Mindful Employer Leeds. The Charter is voluntary, and is not an accreditation, award or set of quality standards. Mindful Employer offers advice on good practice around mental health in the workplace and their leading partner in Leeds is mental health charity Mind

Working with Mindful Employer gives us access to timely and local support for staff during sickness absences, stress management workshops, wellbeing sessions and management training. ​