How we support our employees’ mental health

In the business of modern-day work life, stress seems to have become an unavoidable factor for many of us.

With tight deadlines, demanding projects and constant connectivity, we can end up feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Here at SEH French, we implement some simple yet effective strategies that help staff take control of their stress levels and create a healthier, more balanced work environment.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, we’ve taken a deeper dive into those strategies and how they support our staff.

Prioritising self-care

We work best when our staff feel at their best. So it’s important for us as a responsible employer to provide them with the tools they need to feel fit, happy and healthy.

That’s why it’s important we provide our staff a place to down their tools, step away from their work and unwind. We encourage our team to take regular breaks in our multi-use social space, complete with games and exercise equipment to help them socialise, relax or work out.

Working out is an effective strategy for managing stress because it addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of stress, promoting relaxation, mood improvement, and overall wellbeing.

Living Wage

SEH French are Living Wage accredited employers.

We work hard to look after our people – and we’re proud to pay a wage that offers a fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work. Our formal commitment to the ‘Real Living Wage’ sets this in stone.

The real Living Wage is the only rate calculated according to the costs of living. It provides a voluntary benchmark for employers that wish to ensure their staff earn a wage they can live on, not just the government minimum.

Promoting work-life balance

We know there is much more to life than work. And it’s important we as employers recognise how a good work-life balance benefits our staff.

We offer flexible working hours for staff and recognise that things can crop up on any given day. That includes adjusting hours to accommodate school pick up and drop off times, doctors appointments and time off so staff don’t miss out on big occasions that matter to them and their family. 

Flexible working provides employees with greater flexibility, control, and customisation over their work arrangements, which can help reduce stress and improve overall quality of life.

Out-of-hours support

We appreciate the stresses of our home life can affect our work – and as such want to play our part in helping staff overcome the challenges they may face.

We do this through an employee assistance programme, available 24 hours a day. The phoneline there to cover every aspect of modern life with counselling and support services, because we know how overwhelming it can be at times. Not only is being happier and healthier important personally, but it also boosts motivation, production and performance.

Giving back

When we say we are a team – we really mean it. Whether they work on-site or in the office, our staff go above and beyond to support one another – and it is important we show that same level of appreciation too.

That’s why we host regular social nights throughout the year to allow us all to come together, let off steam and give each other a well earned pat on the back.

Recent events have included summer BBQs, bowling and escape room nights, Christmas dinners and meals out – all fully funded by SEH French.

While workplace stress may seem inevitable, it doesn’t have to consume us.

By prioritising self-care, promoting a better work-life balance and using resources provided, we can create a work environment that supports our wellbeing and allows us to thrive.

Looking to work for a forward-thinking construction firm that puts its staff first? Make sure to check our careers page for the latest vacancies.