Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has received two national recognition awards, the only local authority in Wales, for its work in supporting staff with their mental health.
The Council has been working closely with Case UK and its successful Able Futures scheme, which is supported by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) .
Council staff can access up to nine months confidential support through the Able Futures scheme, which has been warmly received and achieved great results nationally, allowing more than 80 per cent of staff to remain in work.
The exemplary work being carried out by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has earned the local authority a Business Recognition Award for supporting its staff with mental health and well-being.
Rhianydd Davies, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Occupational Health Manager, also collected an individual recognition award for her outstanding support of wellbeing in the workplace. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council was the only local authority in Wales to win an individual recognition award.
Councillor Maureen Webber, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Champion, said: “No matter what age, gender or background, we are all vulnerable to mental health issues in our lives. There are a wide range of conditions such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar and addiction and we are keen to support our staff through tough times.
“I am delighted that the work of the Council in supporting its staff has been recognised at a national level. We are committed to helping individuals who struggle with their mental health and wish to reassure them that they are not alone.
“I’d also like to congratulate Rhianydd for the work she has done, and continues to do for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s staff, and it’s fantastic that she has been recognised nationally for this.
“The Council will continue to support those who need help to achieve stability in their lives and help them maintain employment and good and healthy well-being.”
Support for mental health at work
The Able Futures scheme offers nine months confidential and free advice, guidance and support from mental health professionals to help individuals to cope with work while at the same time effectively managing a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression or stress.
Able Futures helps individuals to manage their mental health at work, allowing them to enjoy more good days. Specialists are on hand to help individuals learn coping mechanisms, build resilience, access therapy at work and allow employers to make adjustments to help individuals cope with their mental health in the workplace.
Case UK is currently delivering the DWP’s access to work initiative Able Futures mental health support services in the workplace. For more information, call Able Futures free-of-charge on 0800 321 3137 (8am to 10:30pm, Monday to Friday).
Posted on 21/03/2022