Fostering a Supportive Workplace: VINCI Energies’ Journey Towards Mental Wellbeing
We embarked on a journey to cultivate a workplace environment that seeks to constantly improve the wellbeing of team members and put their mental health first. Sophie Thornton, Head of HR, VINCI Energies said “Our employees' mental health and wellbeing is a priority for us. In recognition of the importance of mental health, we’re committed to fostering a supportive workplace environment. I am proud to say we are building a culture where wellbeing is not just a goal but an integral part of our shared success."
At the beginning of 2021, we took a significant step forward by partnering with leading mental health organisation Mind to formalise our commitment to employee wellbeing. This involved pledging to the Mental Health at Work Commitment and implementing a set of core standards that prioritise mental health awareness, support, and action within our company.
We are commited to having both Wellbeing champions and Mental Health first-aiders across the group. We have dedicated individuals who are trained not only to be a friendly face but also able to recognise signs of distress and guide their colleagues to the necessary support. We’ve also embraced Mind’s mental health training, making it available to everyone who leads a team through our internal learning system.
Resources for Seeking Help:
We understand that providing resources for seeking help is a critical component of our commitment to mental health. Here are some avenues available to our employees:
Wellbeing Champions & Mental Health First-Aiders: We’ve equipped our group with Wellbeing Champions and Mental Health First-Aiders who are there to listen, support, and guide their colleagues. These champions are approachable and trained to help.
Mind’s Mental Health First Aid Training: Our commitment to mental health includes making Mind’s mental health training accessible to our team members. This training equips individuals with the skills to identify and respond to signs of mental health issues.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): We’ve implemented an EAP to provide confidential counseling and support services to our employees. This resource is available 24/7, offering professional assistance for a wide range of personal and work-related issues.
External Services: Besides our internal resources, we encourage our team members to seek external services if needed. We provide information on reputable support services in the area to ensure accessibility.
Our commitment to mental health in the workplace is not just a corporate initiative but a shared responsibility. By fostering a culture of open communication, understanding, and support, we believe that every team member can thrive both personally and professionally.
