{"id":636,"date":"2021-03-17T13:45:23","date_gmt":"2021-03-17T13:45:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/134.122.102.56\/SAND\/uk\/?post_type=employer&#038;p=636"},"modified":"2021-10-11T11:36:26","modified_gmt":"2021-10-11T10:36:26","slug":"parental-workplace-wellbeing-recommendations","status":"publish","type":"employer","link":"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/employer\/parental-workplace-wellbeing-recommendations\/","title":{"rendered":"Parental Workplace Wellbeing Recommendations"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section id=\"gmb924ea4\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmb924ea4 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g25d100\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g25d100 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">These recommendations have been developed as a result of a parental wellbeing literature review as well as interviews with parents about their experiences of work and perinatal mental health.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gb8b84a\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gb8b84a gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">The ambition of the recommendations are:<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g9c5625\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e7 section-g9c5625 gutentor-element gutentor-element-list\"><ul class=\"grid-row gutentor-grid-item-wrap list-indicator-icon\"><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-0\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">To promote workplace cultures that support emotional well-being and positive mental health for all employees;<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-1\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">To encourage employers to develop and enact strategies that acknowledge and improve the multiple influences that might adversely affect parental mental health;<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-2\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">To ensure that parents experiencing mental ill-health at work are treated with compassion and signposted to appropriate support.<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc8dbcb6\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc8dbcb6 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g4e8429\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g4e8429 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 1<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g8f8f02\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g8f8f02 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should have company wellbeing policies that specifically address the mental health needs of new \/expectant parents in the workplace<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm9bb6883\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm9bb6883 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g127955\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g127955 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">These should include:<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g8585d8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e7 section-g8585d8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-list\"><ul class=\"grid-row gutentor-grid-item-wrap list-indicator-icon\"><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-0\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">A mental health strategy<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-1\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">A family- friendly strategy<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm35c5858\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm35c5858 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g5653b4\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g5653b4 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Consideration of well-being \/ mental health should be included in all HR policies.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g256ce0\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g256ce0 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">There may be a separate or overarching company diversity and inclusion policy that seeks to support employees with diverse and changing needs through every stage of their lives.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g131038\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g131038 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">All policies should be visible on company websites, induction packs, office literature and relevant sections of employment contracts (parental leave and flexible working arrangements).<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g8d03a8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g8d03a8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Designated, and appropriately trained, well-being champions at all levels of the organisation (including at board level), should ensure that company well-being policies are developed, regularly reviewed and are visible, known and applied throughout the organisation, especially when there is pressure from other priorities.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc99f80b\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc99f80b gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-ge82c21\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-ge82c21 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 2<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g247c89\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g247c89 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should set clear targets \/ key performance indicators, in collaboration with their employees, for monitoring and improving employee health and wellbeing.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm354ae30\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm354ae30 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g7600b1\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g7600b1 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">This should include staff surveys or other means of assessing employee health and well-being. The organisation should also publicise action taken in response to survey findings or any wellbeing issues raised by employees.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm09f43b7\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm09f43b7 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g0905d5\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g0905d5 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong><strong>Recommendation 3<\/strong><\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g2d1093\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g2d1093 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should provide health promoting workplace spaces with the necessary adaptations, equipment, training and resources to respond to the unique needs and circumstances of new and expectant parents<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc47d08e\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc47d08e gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-geb41eb\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-geb41eb gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">This should include comfortable, accessible workplaces with adequate lighting, temperature control and space. According to <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legislation.gov.uk\/uksi\/1992\/3004\/regulation\/25\/made\" target=\"_blank\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-cyan-blue-color\">The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992<\/span><\/a> employers must provide suitable rest facilities for pregnant women or nursing mothers. Appropriate time and facilities, including a lockable space to guarantee privacy, must be available to allow breastfeeding mothers to express and store breastmilk. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gme2f4d57\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gme2f4d57 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g9ae5d0\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g9ae5d0 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 4<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g1743a0\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g1743a0 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should provide opportunities for employees to monitor and improve their wellbeing at work<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm4058575\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm4058575 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g34b1d0\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g34b1d0 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Whilst actions taken will depend on the nature of the business and the size of the organisation, initiatives might include weekly wellbeing tips (posted on intranets, workplace noticeboards or sent to all employees via email); on-site relaxation or exercise sessions; lunch-time walking groups or \u2018lunch and learn\u2019 sessions; on-the-hour flash walks; \u2018deskercise\u2019; fitbit challenges; or access to on-line resources such as monitoring, health coaching or counselling apps.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g2694c8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g2694c8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Additional initiatives to demonstrate organisational commitment to workplace well-being might include \u2018walk and talk\u2019 weekly catch-ups; \u2018Well-being Wednesdays\u2019(all employees encouraged to take an extra hour away from work to do something that enhances their well-being every Wednesday), \u2018Fitness Fridays\u2019 (employees encouraged to do something active on Fridays) or an extra day off awarded to all employees in mental health awareness week.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmfb6e45d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmfb6e45d gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gc01b6d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gc01b6d gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 5<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g2d658d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g2d658d gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">All managers should receive appropriate training to enable them to undertake regular reviews of employee wellbeing<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc8b6ce0\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc8b6ce0 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<section id=\"gmd84cf38\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m4 section-gmd84cf38 gutentor-module gutentor-advanced-columns\"><div class=\"grid-container gutentor-rm-ct-space-d gutentor-rm-ct-space-t gutentor-rm-ct-space\"><div class=\"grid-row\">\n<div id=\"col-gm2b4737\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m4-col col-gm2b4737 gutentor-single-column  grid-lg-8 grid-md-12 grid-12 centre\"><div id=\"section-gm2b4737\" class=\"section-gm2b4737 gutentor-col-wrap\">\n<div id=\"section-g36f387\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e6 section-g36f387 gutentor-element gutentor-element-image text-align-center-desktop text-align-center-tablet text-align-center-mobile crop\"><div class=\"gutentor-element-image-box\"><div class=\"gutentor-image-thumb\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"normal-image\" src=\"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2021\/04\/img1.png\" alt=\"Mother holding baby in arms\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"col-gmfe8f6c\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m4-col col-gmfe8f6c gutentor-single-column  grid-lg-4 grid-md-12 grid-12 centre\"><div id=\"section-gmfe8f6c\" class=\"section-gmfe8f6c gutentor-col-wrap\">\n<div id=\"section-gc0cfd8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gc0cfd8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">This should involve consideration of mental and physical health, social, family and environmental circumstances and financial stability.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gd658cf\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gd658cf gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Individual \u2018wellness action plans\u2019 could be introduced as part of employee induction programmes, and then maintained throughout employment, to help identify what individuals need to keep well at work, what causes them to become unwell, and the support they would like to receive from their manager to boost well-being, or provide support through recovery from a mental health problem.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm7c45f90\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm7c45f90 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g0c52bb\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g0c52bb gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-black-color\">&#8216;Wellbeing passports&#8217; could be used to document anything (personal\/family\u00a0circumstances, caregiving responsibilities, religion, workstyle, cognitive preferences, disability\/ long-term conditions) that might affect performance at work and provide details of the \u2018reasonable adjustments\u2019 to working patterns agreed with the line manager.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm27267ef\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm27267ef gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g02ddc2\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g02ddc2 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">In the context of a holistic approach that is preventative and proactive as well as reactive, line managers should undertake monthly \u2018check-ins\u2019 of employee well-being and remain alert to changes in personal\/family circumstances that might compromise both well-being and performance at work. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g038db8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g038db8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Managers must keep in mind that alterations in workplace performance may reflect changes in employee mental state arising from increased external demands on time and energy. This is particularly relevant for parents during pregnancy and the first postnatal year when they may be more vulnerable to mental health issues.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm4bc699e\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm4bc699e gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g13a924\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g13a924 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Line managers should receive training in how to:<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g950989\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e7 section-g950989 gutentor-element gutentor-element-list\"><ul class=\"grid-row gutentor-grid-item-wrap list-indicator-icon\"><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-0\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Conduct legally required risk assessments to identify problems and solutions to workplace conditions that might compromise health and wellbeing, especially in response to pregnancy or changes in mental state<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-1\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Recognise triggers, signs, symptoms and impact of perinatal psychological distress<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-2\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Initiate conversations about sensitive topics<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-3\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Understand and initiate the adjustments that may be needed to respond to the challenges that some parents\/carers and\/or individuals with mental health problems may face (such as sleep deprivation, childcare issues, domestic abuse, fatigue, relapse, drug side effects)<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-4\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Signpost employees with caregiving responsibilities and\/or mental health problems to relevant policies, processes and sources of support<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm150c0e3\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm150c0e3 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gd4d55d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gd4d55d gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 6<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gfefade\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gfefade gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should demonstrate a commitment to promoting work-life balance.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm6e86f25\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm6e86f25 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g3ee6c5\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g3ee6c5 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">This should include specified working hours \/ patterns and clear and reasonable expectations of employees to respond to work demands outside of agreed work hours. Managers at all levels need to lead by example and demonstrate their commitment to well-being through their words, actions and behaviour. For example, working reasonable hours, taking regular breaks, limiting expectations of out-of-hours communication, and taking holiday entitlements.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gme54020c\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gme54020c gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-gec5eb9\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gec5eb9 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Employees should be given the opportunity to negotiate temporary and permanent flexible working arrangements, unless there is a good business reason for not doing so. This might include term-time contracts, compressed hours, delayed start times, working from home or taking an hourly lunch break in three twenty-minute blocks.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gdbfe81\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gdbfe81 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Flexible leave arrangements to respond to personal\/family commitments\/circumstances might also be considered.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc720671\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc720671 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g98e78f\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g98e78f gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">For example, some organisations have introduced:<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g5a7e20\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e7 section-g5a7e20 gutentor-element gutentor-element-list\"><ul class=\"grid-row gutentor-grid-item-wrap list-indicator-icon\"><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-0\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Flexible annual leave or sick days to care for sick children or respond to childcare crises<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-1\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Additional annual leave allowance for families of a specified number of \u00a0\u2018family absence\u2019 days \/ year.<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-2\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">The option of an annual one-month block of unpaid leave to help with childcare during holidays<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><li class=\"gutentor-list-item grid-lg-12 grid-md-12 grid-12\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-item gutentor-single-item-3\"><span class=\"gutentor-list-item-wrap g-s-list-wrap\"><span class=\"gutentor-single-list-item-icon\"><i class=\"list-item-icon fas fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"gutentor-list-item\"><p class=\"gutentor-single-item-title\">Additional paid leave to deal with the repercussions of bereavement or domestic violence<\/p><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm0a25bbe\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm0a25bbe gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g4c78db\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g4c78db gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 7<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g9cf61d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g9cf61d gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Organisations should strive to create a culture of openness and compassion, where the uniqueness of individuals is respected, and variations in circumstances and wellbeing are considered as a normal part of life and proactively accommodated<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm8eba0d8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm8eba0d8 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-gbe3be8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gbe3be8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Both physical and mental health exist on a continuum. It is likely that all employees will need to take time off at some point in their working lives to recover from mental or physical illness. There are steps that organisations can take to acknowledge particularly stressful periods in the lives of their employees in order to provide anticipatory support and prevent the negative repercussions of mental ill-health for both the employee and the organisation. Employers should take a positive, proactive approach to supporting parents in the workplace, especially during pregnancy and the first postnatal year as this represents a period of increased vulnerability to mental ill-health and a period in the child\u2019s life where their optimal health and development is strongly influenced by parental mental wellbeing.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g99c6b6\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g99c6b6 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Adaptive organisations that are perceived as parent-friendly are more likely to retain experienced employees, reduce the costs arising from absenteeism, presenteeism and recruiting new staff, and provide the foundations for a loyal, happier, motivated and more productive workforce.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gf455bd\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gf455bd gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">As there may still be a stigma associated with mental illness, workplaces need to be psychologically safe environments where employees feel able to share their stresses and concerns amidst a culture of acceptance and empathy rather than one of judgement, resentment and discrimination.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-ga4f106\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-ga4f106 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Affinity networks\/staff engagement forums should be developed to allow coalitions of like-minded individuals (parents, individuals with mental health issues, LGBT) to share ideas, experiences, tips and resources and make needs-led recommendations to improve working practices and environments.\u00a0<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm19e1250\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm19e1250 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g2c94fb\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g2c94fb gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">One-to-one mentor\/buddy\/peer support schemes should be introduced to link employees with shared \u2018lived experience\u2019 in order to ease potentially stressful transitions such as changing teams, location, responsibilities, working patterns or returning to work after parental\/sick leave.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g7ad191\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g7ad191 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Efforts should be made to organise timely and inclusive team\/client meetings, team-building and social activities to enable employees constrained by parenting\/caring responsibilities and\/or mental health issues to attend.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm4b35654\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm4b35654 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g8473df\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g8473df gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 8<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g8690fb\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g8690fb gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Employees at all levels of the organisation should have access to appropriate workshops or training in, for example, mental health first aid\/ awareness, stress management\/ resilience, becoming a parent\/ carer.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmc3d3533\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmc3d3533 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-gd7f8ef\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gd7f8ef gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Mental health awareness\/well-being should be included in all new starter induction programmes and should be discussed openly in company and team meetings.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm1a12604\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm1a12604 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g2cdef5\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g2cdef5 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 9<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gf13531\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gf13531 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">All employees should have access to information about the resources available (both within and outside the organisation); the key people to turn to for help and advice; and what to do in the event of a mental health emergency.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gm1a1529d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gm1a1529d gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-g597e1d\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g597e1d gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Confidential in-house support services might include Employee Assistance Programmes, GP appointments, counselling sessions or on-line CBT.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gma9b9139\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gma9b9139 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g90022c\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g90022c gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><h1 class=\"gutentor-text\"><strong>Recommendation 10<\/strong><\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-gf1bb58\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gf1bb58 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Procedures should be in place to ensure that employees who take parental or sick leave are supported before, during, and on their return, from leave<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\" \/>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"gmffbdd59\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-m3 section-gmffbdd59 gutentor-module gutentor-container-cover has-color-bg has-custom-bg\"><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<div id=\"section-gcf76a8\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-gcf76a8 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">A plan should be devised at the onset of parental, carers or sick leave specifying how work tasks will be transferred, how the manager will maintain contact during the leave, how long the leave will last (if known), what support the organisation can provide during the leave taken and plans for return to work (Keep in Touch sessions, phased return). Prior to return, managers may use a \u2018Back to work\u2019 checklist and design a \u2018welcome back\u2019 pack for the returning individual.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"section-g333286\" class=\"wp-block-gutentor-e1 section-g333286 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text centre\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">All employees, but particularly those who are parents\/carers and \/or experiencing mental ill-health, need to be assured that they can adapt working conditions and patterns to their unique and changing needs and circumstances without harassment discrimination or feelings of guilt.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"template":"","class_list":["post-636","employer","type-employer","status-publish","hentry","employer-cat-parental-workplace-wellbeing-recommendations"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/employer\/636","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/employer"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/employer"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/path-perinatal.eu\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=636"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}