Wellbeing sessions at north-east housing company Thirteen are encouraging colleagues to connect with nature and boost their mental health.
The sessions provide colleagues at Thirteen the opportunity to volunteer just a few hours to get their hands dirty and help with environmental projects.
Held at its environmental centre in Billingham, Stockton on Tees, colleagues can find out more about the centre and what happens to our waste, before turning some of the recycled waste processed at the centre into habitats to attract wildlife.
The team are highlighting the importance of being outdoors and connecting with nature during Mental Health Awareness Week, from Monday 10 until 16 May – the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health, hosted by the Mental Health Foundation.
This year the theme is nature and how connecting with the natural world can support good mental health.
Helen Beaman, facilities management delivery manager (TRC), said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to boost your health and wellbeing.
“We’ve already held our first wellbeing group and it was fantastic to see colleagues connect with each other in a safe environment, where they can maintain social distancing.
“Activities will range from building a pond to developing a ‘grow your own food’ area, which will include building a greenhouse and raised beds, planting seeds and shrubs, as well as group litter picks in the community.
“It is fantastic to be working with our supply chain partners at Travis Perkins Managed Services, who are kindly supporting us with this project.
“There are so many mental health benefits. The social element of the wellbeing sessions, coupled with learning about the environment and the physical exercise will give colleagues a real boost.”
Thirteen has pledged its support to changing the way we think and act about mental health in the workplace. The commitment to encouraging people to talk about their mental health is backed by over 50 mental health advocates across the business who are always there to support colleagues.
Image: Thirteen’s head of supply chain Scott Barmby, facilities management delivery manager (supply chain) Gary Fulton and facilities management delivery manager (TRC) Helen Beaman
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