Mica MacInnes, our Head of HR, Learning and Development tells us about how prioritising staff mental health and wellbeing is critical to our success as an organisation.

As Head of HR, Learning, and Development at RTC North, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of prioritising staff mental health and wellbeing within our organisation. I wanted to reflect on the profound impact of nurturing a culture where mental health, resilience, and performance are interconnected pillars of success.

In today's dynamic and demanding work environments, it's not just important to take care of employees because it's the right thing to do—it's also really important for the success of the company. At RTC North, we've created a culture that values mental health and supports the well-being of our staff in tangible ways. Our approach isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about creating an environment where people feel psychologically safe, empowered to take risks, and supported in their journey towards resilience.

Why does this matter? Because when people feel valued and cared for, they're more engaged, motivated, and productive. Studies have shown that organisations that prioritise mental health and resilience experience higher levels of employee engagement, lower absenteeism rates, and greater overall performance.

Consider this: according to the World Health Organisation, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. By investing in initiatives like flexible and hybrid working arrangements, wellness programmes, and access to mental health resources and support, organisations can mitigate these costs and create an environment where employees thrive.

Attracting and retaining top talent today requires more than just competitive salaries and perks. Prospective candidates are increasingly seeking employers who prioritise their mental health and wellbeing and the people we recruit are more likely to stay with organisations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting their holistic needs.

As HR and people leaders, we have a pivotal role to play in championing employee health and wellbeing within our organisations. By creating an environment where people feel psychologically safe, where communication is open and transparent, and where colleagues and managers have each other's backs, we not only fulfil our ethical obligations but also drive tangible benefits for our organisations.

Let's reaffirm our commitment to creating workplaces where every employee can thrive. Let's continue to champion mental health and resilience as essential components of organisational success. Together, we can cultivate environments where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to perform at their best.