Mind
Everyone has mental health in the same way as everyone has physical health - sometimes it’s great, sometimes it’s a struggle. We’re passionate about making mental health and neurodiversity an inclusive subject that everyone can talk about without fear or stigma, and recognise that looking after our minds is essential for our overall wellbeing in today’s demanding 24/7 environment.
Whether you want help to manage the general ups and downs of life, get support when you are in need, or just find out more about how to help you and your colleagues maintain good mental health – steps to help you on your journey are here.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provides confidential unlimited support on any matter that might be of concern to you - from mental health and wellbeing, through to legal, relationship and money matters.
Help is given by accredited counsellors or information specialists, depending on whether the need is for emotional or practical support.
The services is free and available to members of staff across the University 24 hours a day, 365 days a year either through an online portal or a telephone helpline.
Further information and access details can be found on the EAP page on the HR website.
Domestic Abuse
What is domestic abuse?
Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexuality or background. Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:
- coercive control and ‘gaslighting’
- economic abuse
- online abuse
- threats and intimidation
- emotional abuse
- sexual abuse
- forced marriage
- honour violence
The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically, just one encounter counts as abuse, and it can be an ongoing pattern of behaviour. However, the one constant element of domestic abuse is the abuser's consistent efforts to maintain power and control over the victim.
Remember, you are not to blame for what is happening. You are not alone, and above all you do not have to suffer in silence.
Financial Advice
For financial wellbeing signposting and a wealth of financial information follow this link to the HR Webpages
If you are struggling to manage your finances the Money Advice Service has free and impartial money advice, set up by government
They will provide:
- Advice and guides to help improve your finances
- Tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead
- Support over the phone and online
The Yellow Book
is an online resource created by rethinkyourmind that has various tools and techniques to help you combat stress in written and audio format. In addition, the e-book features poems, songs, readings and artwork to help with your mental wellbeing.
Mental Health First Aiders
Numerous ºÚÁÏÍø staff across both campuses are trained in Mental Health First Aid.
MHFAiders are trained to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis – and can potentially avert a crisis from happening. They can do this by recognising warning signs, and they have the skills and confidence to approach and support someone experiencing mental ill-health.
MHFAiders also have a role in supporting positive wellbeing and tackling stigma.
Togetherall
A safe community to support your mental health.
Chaplaincy team
As part of Student Services, the University Chaplaincy is provided as a place where students and staff are welcomed to reflect, explore and express faith and spirituality. It is a place to pray, to meditate and to meet others.
It also offers help with spiritual, ethical and moral concerns. Chaplains of various faiths are available to anyone irrespective of their religious or spiritual beliefs.
Support groups
The University is strongly committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and supports all groups of staff. A number of staff support groups have been established by Human Resources and Organisational Development so that members can support each other, raise any concerns and influence the University’s People Strategy.
Learning and Development
ºÚÁÏÍø is committed to personally developing our staff through their time employed here. One way in which we achieve this is through the Organisational Development team, who run a series of courses throughout the year which are free for staff to sign up to. We also offer staff numerous other development options so that staff can select the appropriate training for their own personal development needs.