Combating Loneliness: Street Heaver’s Wellbeing Mission

Loneliness is something that we all feel at times but when it is chronic or long-term it can have serious effects on our mental health.

We all have a part to play in reducing loneliness.

Mental Health Awareness Week falls between the 9th and 15th of May. This year’s theme of ‘loneliness’ was chosen in response to findings from the Mental Health Foundation‘s research on mental wellbeing in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. In their polling, they found that loneliness is a leading issue that the public feels needs addressing.

According to research, almost half (46%) of UK workers have experienced loneliness. As one of the many companies embracing a hybrid working from home policy, this raises the importance of how to ensure we remain connected to our employees and their needs.

Reducing loneliness in the workforce

We continue to be advocates for mental health awareness. Streets Heaver run a variety of weekly and one-off events to help staff with their wellbeing, including; 

• Virtual coffee breaks run twice weekly via Discord to allow colleagues to socialise and relax.
• Regular group walks in and around the local area.
• Virtual quizzes on various topics and themes to encourage a little friendly competition.
• Within the office, we encourage hot-desking to allow staff to meet and collaborate with colleagues.
• Consistent online resources for employees are available targeting a number of topics.
• In-person social events, including the upcoming Mental Health Awareness Week Coffee Morning!

We also have a team of trained Mental Health First Aiders who play a significant part in organising many of these events. The role of a Mental Health First Aider in the workplace is to be a point of contact for an employee who is experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress. We asked two of our MHFA champions for their top tips on beating feelings of loneliness:

 

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to other people, no matter how long it’s been. When you’re feeling lonely it’s easy to think that people not messaging you means they don’t want to talk; but they could just be in the same place as you, so you shouldn’t be put off making the first move.” Somer Edwards

“Try and connect with other people by joining groups where interest is shared. Aside from this, there is the simple act of exercising. Just going for a walk and saying hello to someone else can reduce feelings of isolation, especially if it leads to a little chat.” Marvin Cottam 

Reaching out:

There is support available to those who are struggling with loneliness and poor mental health. Contact details for some helpful charities and organisations have been collated below:  

MIND – Call the Mind information line on 0300 123 3393 or email info@mind.org.uk 

Samaritans – Call 116 123 

Rethink – Call the Rethink Mental Illness advice and information line on 0300 5000 927 or email advice@rethink.org

Shout – For support in a crisis, text Shout to 85258