On Friday 4 September 2020, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust committed to supporting the plight to end mental health discrimination.
Colleagues from across the organisation gathered in a socially distanced signing ceremony, attended virtually by some delegates to witness Julie Gillon, Chief Executive and Alan Sheppard, Chief People Officer sign the pledge.
Mr Sheppard spoke of the importance of the Trust’s involvement: “The Time to Change employer pledge is our way of demonstrating a commitment to changing the way we all think and act surrounding mental health in the workplace. We want to ensure that our 5,500 strong employees feel supported about opening up and talking about their own experiences and journeys.”
The event held at the University of North Tees hospital site invited staff to talk about their individual experiences. Colleagues shared personal stories in a bid to start positive conversation surrounding the matter.
Julie Gillon, Chief Executive commented: “the importance of our health must never be underestimated. The last six months have tested us all, we must now take action and position mental wellbeing of equal importance with our physical health. Our staff have, and indeed always do demonstrate great resilience. But we should always be cognisant of the challenges colleagues have faced and will continue to face.
“This pledge is our own personal dedication to our teams. As one of over 1,500 other employers that we will support them, listen and we will end the stigma.”
Approximately one in four people and one in eight young people will experience mental health problems annually.
North Tees and Hartlepool join employers such as:
- Sky News
- Middlesbrough College
- London Fire Brigade
- Other NHS providers
You can find out more about the pledge by visiting Time to Change.