South Ribble Well-Being Day – 28th February 2024

I had the pleasure of taking part in South Ribble’s Well-Being Day on 28th February 2024 – a truly inspiring event dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and overall wellbeing among South Ribble employees.

Throughout the day, I was stationed at a wellbeing stall where I had the opportunity to talk to staff about the importance of looking after their mental health and the many benefits of accessing counselling services. It was heartening to see so many people take an interest, stop by for a chat, and ask thoughtful questions about the support available to them. These conversations reaffirmed the vital need for open, compassionate spaces where mental health is discussed freely and without judgment.

That said, it’s clear that some stigma around mental health still exists. A few individuals seemed hesitant to approach the stall or engage in discussions, which is a reminder that there’s still work to be done in normalising these conversations. However, I remain hopeful that simply having the resources available – and visible – might gently encourage those who need support to reach out in their own time.

One of the highlights of the day was connecting with the fantastic staff at South Ribble. Their warmth, curiosity, and openness made the event feel welcoming and worthwhile. I also had the chance to meet several representatives from external organisations, all equally passionate about supporting employee wellbeing. Sharing ideas and collaborating with others in this space was both motivating and affirming.

Overall, the Well-Being Day was a positive step forward in raising awareness and building a healthier, more supportive workplace culture. I’m proud to have been part of it and look forward to seeing how initiatives like this continue to grow and evolve.