5 ways to boost your team’s mental health - Bar & Kitchen

5 ways to boost your team’s mental health

Discover some quick tips to support your team’s wellbeing in the festive season and beyond through services such as The Burnt Chef Project & Hospitality Action.

1. Check-in regularly

Start conversations before problems escalate. Quick, informal check-ins – whether it’s over a coffee or after a shift – can help you spot when someone’s struggling. A few minutes of listening really can make a massive difference.

2. Know the signs

Make sure managers are trained to recognise early signs of mental health issues. Burnout, mood swings and withdrawal are all red flags. Think about offering basic mental health awareness training or add it to your staff induction plan. When you know what to look for, it’s easier to step in early and support staff before small issues become bigger problems.

3. A safe space to talk

A healthy culture starts with trust. Lead by example – share your own challenges, listen without judgement and make it clear that support is always available. Even a poster in the staffroom or a payslip reminder can encourage someone to reach out.

4. Make work work for everyone

Rotas don’t need to be rigid. Where possible, offer more flexible shift patterns to give a better work-life balance – especially for those juggling parenting, study or second jobs. These small changes will all help retain great staff and reduce stress levels.

5. Signpost support

Not everyone wants to talk in person. Promote free, confidential help through places like Hospitality Action or The Burnt Chef Project, which run 24/7 helplines. Both are also brilliant sources of practical advice, training and resources to help you build a mentally healthier workplace.

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