About the Network
The Leeds Mindful Employer Network helps businesses and organisations across Leeds and West Yorkshire build mentally healthy workplaces. Unique to Leeds, it is the only network of its kind in the UK and is led by Leeds Mind in partnership with a Steering Group of local employers. Membership is free and open to employers and business owners committed to improving mental health at work.
The Network provides free information, guidance and events on a wide range of workplace wellbeing topics. Members have access to peer support, local training, resources, and regular updates through newsletters and events.
How the Network can help
The Network can support employers in areas such as:
- Developing a healthy workplace culture
- Raising awareness and tackling stigma
- Promoting good mental health and wellbeing
- Building a mental health strategy or plan
- Improving manager communication and skills
- Increasing employee engagement
- Tracking and monitoring workplace mental health
- Building a case for investment and support
- Embedding good practice and making it sustainable
Why mental health at work matters
Investing in staff wellbeing benefits both employees and organisations. Research indicates a return of £5 for every £1 spent on supporting employee mental health.
Employers who prioritise mental health can expect to see reduced sickness absence, better retention, improved customer outcomes, stronger engagement and healthier, more resilient teams.
Fonemedia experience
“At Fonemedia, employee wellbeing has always been central to our culture, so joining the Leeds Mindful Employer Network felt like a natural step. We were inspired by its practical approach to supporting mental health in the workplace and the chance to connect with other like-minded employers. Earlier this year, we invited Leigh from the network to deliver a presentation in our office, which really helped open up conversations and encouraged colleagues to share their own experiences – it was so popular, she’s revisiting in January. The sessions and shared resources have been invaluable in helping us strengthen our wellbeing initiatives, raise awareness, and ensure our managers feel confident supporting their teams. Being part of the network has reinforced our belief that open dialogue around mental health leads to a more supportive, engaged, and resilient workplace.”— Fonemedia, Leeds Mindful Employer Network member
Fonemedia are based here at Thorpe Park Leeds.
Resources and membership
The Network has developed a 10 Steps Toolkit to help organisations begin building a mentally healthy workplace. Free workshops are available to support employers working through the toolkit and embedding sustainable change.
Organisations wishing to demonstrate their commitment can sign the Mindful Employer Charter, a national initiative encouraging positive employer approaches to workplace mental health. For full information, visit: mindfulemployer.dpt.nhs.uk
Upcoming free events
- Preventing Burnout at Work: Stories, Strategies and What Works Date & time: 20 November, 13:00–16:00 Venue: The Knowledge Exchange, The Rose Bowl, Portland Crescent, Leeds LS1 3HB Book now
- Mental Health Support for Adults in Leeds: What Employers Need to Know Date & time: 4 December, 10:00–12:00 (online) Book now
Join or contact the Network
Joining is quick, easy and free for local employers and business owners.
Complete the sign-up form or email mindfulemployer@leedsmind.org.uk
Leeds Mindful Employer Network is led by Leeds Mind with support from a Steering Group of local employers.
For additional information call Leeds Mind on 0113 305 5800 or visit leedsmind.org.uk/mindful-employer.