As part of its commitment to place wellbeing front and centre stage MERKUR UK has been raising awareness of key issues surrounding mental health.
MERKUR UK chose Mental Health Awareness Week (15 to 21 May) to provide support for a quartet of important charities comprising – Mental Health Research UK, Together For Mental Wellbeing, Mental Health Foundation, and the Stress Management Society – as well as engaging directly with its 1600 strong work force.
A set of communications was sent to all employees providing information on issues including stress, anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
At the company’s Milton Keynes head office free drinks and snacks were provided to encourage staff to take time away from their desk and to talk with colleagues.
Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at Merkur Casino UK believes that by dovetailing company-wide initiatives with national events such as Mental Health Awareness Week it’s possible to break through much of the stigma that’s still associated with mental health.
He says: “I think it’s vitally important to recognise that mental health affects many different people and in many different ways.
“Anxiety, which was the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, is a normal emotion but if it gets out of control it can have a terrible impact on individuals and can become a mental health problem.
“I believe employers have a responsibility to create an environment in which people can talk and if needed to seek some help.
“We all live in challenging times and it’s never been more important to provide the tools and insight to help people manage feelings of anxiety and prevent them from becoming a problem.
“I’m delighted that we have been able to support the four charities and to bring wellbeing front and centre stage.”