At 1st Line Defence, we recognise that strong teams are built not only on technical expertise and operational excellence, but also on a positive and supportive working environment where your wellbeing is prioritised.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, colleagues across the business took part in a range of activities designed to encourage open conversations around mental health, promote healthy habits and reinforce the importance of looking after ourselves and each other – both in and out of the workplace.
In industries such as construction and UXO risk mitigation, where projects can often involve demanding environments, tight programmes and high-pressure decision-making – maintaining good mental health and wellbeing is just as important as maintaining physical safety on site.
Creating conversations around Mental Health
One in four people will experience a mental health problem of some kind every year in England, and with one in six people experiencing mental health problems in the workplace, and it is vital that we create an environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing their mental health and wellbeing.
Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, staff participated in a series of webinars and training sessions aimed at improving awareness, understanding common challenges and providing practical guidance on recognising when support may be needed.
The sessions encouraged honest conversations around stress, resilience and workplace wellbeing – helping to further break down the stigma that can still exist around mental health.
Encouraging team engagement
To show support for the initiative, employees also took part in a ‘Wear it Green’ day in the office, helping raise awareness while bringing teams together in a simple but meaningful way.
Across the week, colleagues joined wellbeing walks, providing an opportunity to step away from desks and project pressures – get active and connect with others in an informal setting.
Even short periods away from your workstation can have a positive impact on focus, stress management and overall wellbeing.
Practical wellbeing techniques
As part of the initiative, staff were also introduced to practical techniques that can help manage stress and improve day-to-day wellbeing, including guided breathing exercises and journaling activities.
These small but effective habits can play an important role in helping individuals manage busy workloads, maintain perspective and support long-term mental resilience.
Continuing the conversation
While Mental Health Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to raise awareness, supporting mental wellbeing is something that extends far beyond a single week.
At 1st Line Defence, we remain committed to fostering a workplace culture where people feel supported, valued and able to speak openly about their mental health.
By continuing to encourage awareness, communication and wellbeing initiatives across the business – we can help create healthier and safer working environments for everyone.
Details of mental health support services and resources
The Mental Health Foundation: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week
Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/workplace/wellbeing-workplace/
The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund gives free support to veterans: https://www.rafbf.org/get-support/emotional-wellbeing
The Royal Air Forces Association provides support to families and partners of veterans: https://findingittough.rafa.org.uk/
Felix Fund (the Bomb Disposal Charity): https://www.felixfund.org.uk/
