Best practice

The following are examples of staff mental health and wellbeing initiatives from different organisations in St Helens Borough:

Change, Grow, Live

Change, Grow, Live (CGL) are a drug and alcohol service for adults aged 19+, families and carers in St Helens. For staff wellbeing, they offer the following:

• Health, Wellbeing and Development Time: this is time to undertake an activity focused on health, wellbeing and development. It is a protected hour within the working week and activities can be done in teams (as long as this is agreed with the manager and there is sufficient staffing levels to cover the service) or as individuals.
• Online Staff Wellbeing Hub: has information and resources to help staff improve and maintain wellbeing.
• CGL Wellbeing Zone: the zone can assess overall wellbeing of staff; staff can also create personal goals and track progress. The zone also includes exercise videos, relaxation tips and more!

Advocacy Focus

Advocacy Focus provide all age advocacy services in St Helens. For staff wellbeing, they offer the following:

• Wellbeing Hour: for all employees no matter their contracted hours and can be taken any time during the week.
• Wellbeing Champions and a Wellbeing Lead within the organisation.
• Monthly Wellbeing Call with staff via Microsoft Teams.

Chrysalis Centre for Change

Chrysalis Centre for Change in St Helens provide mental health and domestic abuse support for females. For staff wellbeing, they offer the following:

• Ethos is to Support, Empower and Inspire, this is for people they support and staff.
• Culture of Collaboration and Support: Chrysalis believe that every individual plays a vital role in their organisation's success, and they strive to ensure that each team member feels valued, supported and empowered to contribute their best.
• Open Communication and Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from team members, welcoming suggestions for improvement and being open to new ideas. Committed to creating an environment where every voice is heard.
• Support and Wellbeing: As a people-focused organisation, Chrysalis prioritise the wellbeing of team members. The manager is approachable and available to listen, offer support, or simply lend a helping hand. They promote regular breaks, encouraging team members to recharge and refocus. The office environment is designed to be relaxing, warm and welcoming, with amenities like a table for jigsaws and painting to help team members unwind.
• Wellness Initiatives: This includes physical activity; encouraging team members to move around every 30 minutes; and have a relaxed atmosphere that promotes flexibility and comfort.
• Fun and Connection: Value humour and connection; use a group chat to share personal stories, funny moments and laughter. Regular supervisions provide a safe space for team members to discuss their progress, development and support needs.