Mental health is a topic which is just as pertinent for both recruiters and jobseekers alike. While the strain caused by
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EXPERT INSIGHT Gi Group UK Gi Group UK’s Managing Director of the Branch Network, Paul Smith, shares his views on the role recruiters should play in addressing the issue of unemployment among those with mental health issues.
Mental Health and Employment – A Job for All Mental health is a topic which is just as pertinent for both recruiters and jobseekers alike. While the strain caused by long-term unemployment and the stresses associated with re-entering the world of work are difficult and daunting for the majority of people – they are particularly challenging for those with mental health problems. Huge numbers of people continue to fall out of work because they are experiencing a mental health problem but not getting the support they need; and too few people with mental health problems are being helped back into work.1 The statistics are damning - over a third of people with mild to moderate mental health problems, and almost two thirds of people with more severe mental health problems are unemployed. 2 More must be done by recruiters and businesses to help their workforce manage, and overcome, their mental health problems and to feel supported and valued within their employment.
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In order to tackle the pressing concern of unemployment among those with mental health issues recruiters should recruit responsibly by removing any barriers to work – as well as actively working towards getting them back into a workplace environment. Back to work schemes and employability workshops can help those who have been – or are currently – out of work refresh and develop their skills before they are re-introduced into a working environment. Businesses can also help by starting at the very core of the problem with a focus on staff wellbeing and ensuring that employees are as happy and secure in their roles as possible. Opening up the lines of communication between management and other employees regarding their mental health problems is a hugely positive step towards building a happier and healthier workforce. By being sensitive and open to a staff member’s mental health issues they in turn will feel more
supported and valued which will not only improve their performance at work, but contribute to the overall success of the team and the overall workplace environment. A successful and productive team dynamic starts with engaged and enthusiastic employees who feel as though they are thriving within their job role and on their chosen career path – rather than simply surviving – on a day-by-day basis. At Gi Group UK we pride ourselves on our commitment to Responsible Recruitment as part of our award-winning Corporate Social Responsibility Programme. Not only do we work with local communities to reduce barriers to work for jobseekers, we also offer a structured Wellbeing Programme for our employees. This comprises a number of services designed to work on the behalf of staff to improve wellbeing and employee satisfaction.
