According to new research published by Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Nottingham, strong links exist between positive business performance and mental health training for line managers.
Furthermore, the analysis of workforce practices suggests that recognising this, and acting on it, could save organisations millions every year.
The study showed a strong association between training for those in management positions and improved customer service and staff recruitment and retention. Lower levels of long-term mental health sick leave were also evident.
The researchers examined anonymised survey data from several thousand companies in England, collected between 2020 and 2023, as part of a larger investigation into workplace mental health and productivity.
Based on the findings, they recommend that employers provide mental health training to line managers and establish workplace policies clarifying their roles in supporting employee wellbeing. The team also suggested that ongoing research could explore whether such guidance increases managers’ knowledge, skills and confidence.
Inspire understands the impact that bosses can have on the people they oversee. Management comes with its own set of unique responsibilities, of course, but the extent to which a leader’s own performance affects his or her colleagues’ mental health must be considered when carrying out supervisory duties.
We offer extensive training in this area, from leadership coaching to wellbeing courses. Each programme is designed to create and maintain healthy, safe and respectful workforces, workforces in which everyone thrives.
If you would like to find out more about services and support offered by Inspire, please feel free to contact enquiries@inspirewellbeing.org.
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