Together we stay stronger As lockdown measures start to ease in many places and we return to work, you are welcomed back to a ‘New Normal’.
Keeping updated on changes As we gradually come out of lockdown, it is important to ensure that our health, safety and wellbeing are our top priority and to ensure you keep up to date with any changes that may affect you both in and out of a work environment. Look online for latest government guidance on the easing lockdown measures and remember to read the information and updates that are provided every Friday through David Thomas’ weekly update. All previous weekly health and wellbeing flyers can also be viewed on Our Place.
Looking after your mental health as lockdown eases Lockdown is easing across the country in different ways and at different times. As we begin to come out of lockdown many of us are faced with what we may see as both challenges and opportunities. By adhering to the restrictions and social distancing guidelines in place, we may be able to see friends and family in person, visit public places, play sport or return to work. However, even though we have been waiting for these restrictions to ease for some time, many of us may find the easing of lockdown might be as hard for us to adapt to as going into lockdown. It may also understandably be worrying for those who are more at risk from the virus or living with mental health problems. If this is something you are struggling with, read the Mental Health Foundations tips on dealing with fear and anxiety as lockdown eases and coping with uncertainty.
You may also feel that you have no control over what has been happening, but there are a number of things that you can take control of: Put boundaries in place as you return to work to ensure you maintain your work/life balance which has a positive impact on your mental health and wellbeing. Ensure you take regular breaks to maintain concentration and energy levels. The ‘Be Focused’ app or scheduling a break as an event on Outlook can be used as a reminder. Exercise has become a valued part of the daily routine for many people. Think about how this can be maintained as you return to work. Continuing to practice preventative measures, such as washing your hands, maintaining social distancing and regularly cleaning surfaces. Talk to your Line Manager, HR or SHE Representative if you have any concerns. Everyone’s emotional response to the pandemic is different and each response is valid. If you notice a change in behaviour, increase in anxiety or a drop in someone’s mood, check to see if they are ok. Seek support by talking to a counsellor or advisor such as Unum or the Construction Worker Helpline who will be able to assist you in getting help, listen to your concerns or offer advice around coping mechanisms you can try.
Learning & Development The Talent Team will continue to offer a range of 45 minute webinars throughout July and the theme is ‘reconnecting with the business as we return to work’. Sessions are available to book now via MyLearning. Don’t forget there's also a range of short eLearning modules covering many topics which are available via MyLearning. We have partnered with Lighthouse, a charity that provides physical, mental and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families. They are running two webinars for us so book now via MyLearning: Tuesday 14 July – Meditation 10.00am – 10.45am Thursday 16 July – Work life balance 10.00am – 11.00am
Together we stay stronger Burnout Through the last few months whether you have been furloughed or remained at work, this will have had an impact on your health and wellbeing. You may have been worrying about your job, your family, your health, working long hours, you may have financial worries or be worrying about the future – so it’s not surprising that so many people are struggling with high levels of stress. Our routines have completely changed, and with many working parents now at home with their children all day – we are also separated from most of our support networks of family, friends and colleagues. It goes without saying that we are living in stressful times, particularly at present, but failing to manage this stress increases our risk of burnout, which can have long-term negative effects on our mental and physical health and wellbeing. There are things you can do to help: Put boundaries in place to achieve and maintain a work-life balance. Set realistic targets for yourself and be flexible where you can. Prioritise what you need to do will help make things clearer. Don’t criticise yourself if you don’t achieve everything on your to do list. COMING SOON: Stress Self-Management Webinar which will provide information and tools to recognise your own signs of stress, trigger points and how to self-manage.
Help and support We know that sometimes it can be difficult to manage the pressures of life or you may just want to speak to someone to get advice or support on an everyday issue. Whatever the need there is professional, confidential support and help available to you, and just some are detailed below: Employee Assistance Programme: Our EAP providers, Unum LifeWorks, offer someone to talk to in confidence. You can call them freephone on 0800 048 2702 or access tools, information and links on their website (user id: unum password: lifeworks). Construction Worker Helpline: A free, confidential service for construction workers. Visit their website for further information or call them in confidence on freephone 0808 801 0372 (8am-8pm, 7 days a week). Construction Industry Helpline: The Construction Industry Helpline is managed and funded by the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. Call 0345 605 1956 or download the free app. Samaritans: Get in touch about anything that’s troubling you, call for free on 116 123 for 24/7 confidential support. NHS Every Mind Matters: Access expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing. MIND: The charity are providing helpful information, tips and support for anyone who is worried about lockdown easing. CRUSE bereavement care: A charity offering support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies. On their website, you can find help, guidance and information on grieving during isolation. The national free helpline number is 0808 808 1677. BrightSky: A free to download mobile app, providing support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.
For information, tools and links on many areas of Health & Wellbeing please visit our My Barratt Benefits website