Agency takes pioneering role during #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

An estate agency service in the Lake District has rolled out a new benefit to all its staff - and in doing so is perhaps taking a pioneering approach towards mental health awareness in the industry.

Thomson Hayton Winkley, Solicitors, Estate Agents and Financial Services is giving all members of staff access to an Employee Assistance Programme. 

This programme has a confidential 24 hour helpline to support them and their immediate family through any challenges they are facing in any areas of their life.

“We are well aware of the importance of a work life balance. As a company we have invested in training to help our clients when they are faced with challenges. We wanted to extend that same benefit to our employees” explains agency director John Cooke.

“Not everyone wants to talk to about personal or home challenges at work, so this scheme enables us to give our employees access to professional help for many areas of their lives where they may need support. The helpline can give support on a wide range of topics from bereavement to financial information, family issues and retirement as well as stress and anxiety and medical information.

“I am training to become a mental health first responder and we are planning to be much more attuned to the positive impact of having a safe environment in which to discuss difficult issues, both at home and at work.”