Throughout the year we hold a number of wellbeing campaigns for our colleagues that help to raise awareness of important topics relating to Mental health and wellbeing. The mental wellbeing of our colleagues is very important to us, the aim of these campaigns are to support all our colleagues by starting conversations to banish the stigma often associated with Mental Health and to ensure all our colleagues understand what support is available to them and how to access help if they need to.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September 2021, we held our first campaign that opened the conversation about Suicide and Mental Health. We know that talking about Mental Health & Suicide is the most effective way to prevent it and proactively reduce stigma, but we also know suicide can feel uncomfortable and difficult to talk about.
The aim of the week-long campaign was to increase knowledge and provide tools that enable all our colleagues to help and support each other. Throughout the campaign we asked colleagues to #Takeamoment to check in on those around them, reflect on the information shared throughout the week and reach out for help if they needed to.
The week began with an introduction to the campaign followed by a focus on the everyday language we might use that contributes to mental health stigma and prevents a person from reaching out for help. On day three, we focussed on spotting the signs and how to help a person before sharing real life stories of those personally impacted by suicide on day four.
To round off the week we shared the all-important help and support that’s available both internally through our Employee Assistance programme, and externally through organisations such as Mind and the Samaritans.
The campaign was really well received, generating lots of conversation amongst our colleagues and leaders, many of whom leant in to share their own personal stories.
"This campaign is amazing and hugely beneficial. Thank you & well-done Sainsbury's for raising this invaluable awareness"