Essex Law firm introduces wellbeing programme for staff

Updated 4 Mar 2022

Birkett Long is making a wellbeing commitment to its staff, which focuses on aspects of mental, physical and financial wellbeing.

All managers and team leaders have undertaken wellbeing training to enable them to support their teams and colleagues. Compulsory, but confidential, stress at work training will be undertaken by all staff using an online resource. The firm will also give pointers to quick and easy tips to help manage stress in addition to details of useful resources. Staff already have access to a counselling service with face to face sessions or unlimited telephone counselling sessions.

Birkett Long has numerous trained mental health first aiders across their three offices, who will be available for colleagues to talk to should they wish. The training was run in partnership with MHFA England and delivered by Provide who are commissioned to deliver NHS and community services. Trainer for Provide, Lyn Mowforth, said of the venture: “We are proud to be able to work with Birkett Long to embed trained mental health first aiders.  This training follows HSE current guidance and not only demonstrates a commitment to staff health and wellbeing but provides the organisation with the practical skills to recognise, support and signpost staff who feel overwhelmed or distressed.”

As part of its commitment to the wellbeing of its people, Birkett Long launched lunchtime walking clubs to encourage staff to reap the physical and mental benefits of being active in addition to reaping the emotional benefits of connecting with their colleagues outside of the working environment. Staff also get free fruit in the office once a month to encourage a balanced diet and have access to a bespoke "Workout Wednesday" programme designed by a local personal trainer.

Employees are encouraged to take one "volunteer day" each year to help a charity or project in their community.

Financial worries can affect the mental health of many and the firm are making seminars on financial management, held in conjunction with Birkett Long IFA, available to access for staff should they wish.

The Wellbeing Programme demonstrates the firm's ongoing commitment to their people. Staff already benefit from the firm’s flexitime scheme in addition to a hybrid working policy whereby they are able to work flexibly around core hours meaning a greater work/life balance is achieved whilst the needs of the business are still met.

Partner and Director of HR and L&D, Joann Kebbell said: “We all know mental health affects so many people, whether it be in their personal life or related to work. Birkett Long is committed to supporting its staff with their mental health issues and offering support. Having fully trained Mental Health First Aiders is vital to enable us to achieve this. I am proud to work within an organisation that has driven through the stigma of mental health and is continuing to take positive steps to give support and guidance to colleagues.”