The week between 15 to 21 of May we took part on Mental Health Awareness Week, an initiative from the Mental Health Foundation to bring awareness about mental health issues, starting conversations so people will be able to share their experiences, coping strategies, or simply open up about their struggles. The theme this year was Anxiety, a common response from our bodies when faced with stressful situations, but one that can become a bigger issue if it gets out of control.

Every day we presented our team with different challenges, ideas, resources and treats, all aiming to support their own mental health wellbeing, as well as to kickstart these important conversations about mental health illness and struggles. Throughout the whole week you could really see our ‘Five hands’ values come to life more than ever before!

We shared a calendar in the beginning of the week, so the team would know what they are looking forward to. We invited our team to take a moment to reflect and be thankful for all the good things in their lives, encouraging them to share these gratitude notes if they wished. On another day, we welcomed them with a yummy healthy breakfast made of a variety of fresh fruit and some natural yogurt. It really brought a colourful start to everyone’s day! As endorphins are key to feel happy and energised, we encouraged our staff to go on walks to soak on some fresh air and even some sunlight.

On Thursday, we took part on Wear it green. Adults and children wore green to create awareness about the importance of looking after their mental health, sharing strategies, and remembering the importance of being mindful, as we never know what others are going through. This was also a great opportunity to open up conversations with the children about ways to look after their mental wellbeing, even from a young age (e.g. working on ways to self-regulate their feelings and emotions, learning about ways to make themselves and others feel better).

On Friday, we closed the week by showing appreciation to one another, leaving messages telling our team how much we love all the little things that make them their unique selves! It was a really nice way to start the weekend with a nice warm feeling, reminding each other of just how valued and appreciated we all are!