Better Business / Member news
Baltimore Consulting enhances mental health support for employees
Bristol-based recruitment firm Baltimore Consulting has bolstered its mental health support for employees amid rising concerns over workplace mental health. Recognising that one in six people in the UK experience common mental health issues like anxiety and depression weekly, the company has expanded its mental health and wellbeing initiatives.
Recent data indicates that a third of managers feel unprepared to handle their team’s mental health needs. Charmaine Vincent, CEO of Baltimore Consulting, and Louise Foster, director of people, have spearheaded the enhancement of the company’s mental health and wellbeing strategy. This includes increasing the number of qualified mental health first aiders and introducing a new Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in partnership with Wellbeing Solutions.
The new EAP offers comprehensive support services, including free, confidential counselling available via face to face sessions, telephone, video calls, and live chat. This initiative builds on the company’s first EAP system launched in 2021 post pandemic, addressing the increasing need for mental health support as poor mental health accounts for over half of all work-related illnesses. Stress, depression, and anxiety contribute to 51% of long-term sick leave.
Baltimore Consulting’s third EAP program is a result of continuous investment and employee feedback over the past three years. The firm emphasises creating a supportive environment where employees feel empowered to use mental health services without judgement.
Additional elements of the company’s mental health plan include life coaching sessions, a four-day work week, and “duvet days.” Employees also receive weekly time off dedicated to wellness activities, recognising the mental health benefits of exercise, such as reduced anxiety and improved self-esteem and cognitive function.
In partnership with the charity Bristol Mind, Baltimore Consulting gave employees extra time off during Mental Health Awareness Week for a steps challenge, raising £560 for the charity’s Big Give campaign. This funding supports one-on-one counselling for young adults in Bristol, focusing on LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse communities.
Founded in 2013, Baltimore Consulting specialises in senior appointments and niche recruitment for the public sector, with a commitment to improving lives within the community. Their dedication to mental health support is integral to their identity and operations.
Main photo: Baltimore Consulting
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