The health and happiness of our staff is of paramount importance to us. We are committed to providing support where we can, to help you deal with any issues around your mental health and wellbeing.
Mental health is just as important as physical health; they form two sides of the same coin. And things don't have to be at a crisis point for you to seek help. Problems can arise in many forms and from many situations: for example stress at work, bereavement, family or relationship problems, illness, legal or financial troubles, or an underlying mental health condition. The effects can include insomnia, anxiety, depression, lack of energy or persistently feeling unwell.
In 2017 we signed the 'Time to Change' pledge, and we offer a range of programmes and services to support staff wellbeing. After listening to your concerns in the last few months, we have also introduced an Employee Assistance Programme for all staff that features a 24-hour helpline, counselling sessions, online resources and a mobile app.
Please use the resources we've listed here to help look after yourself and your colleagues.
A Wellness Action Plan (WAP) is a practical and proactive way to support your mental health at work. This is a well-used tool developed by the mental health charity MIND, which we have adapted for use by University staff. You can download a template and a user's guide using the links on the right.
If you're currently experiencing a mental health issue, completing a Wellness Action Plan may help you; if you're well at the moment but interested in mapping out what needs to be in place for you to remain so, you might find a Wellness Action Plan valuable.
The Staff Counselling Service can support you whether you simply want to talk something through with someone who can be neutral and independent, or if you would like help with more severe problems such as anxiety and depression. In addition to being able to provide support for a wide range of personal problems, the workplace service can offer specific support for workplace issues such as acceptable behavior, traumatic incidents and dealing with conflict.
We know that lack of sleep can affect our health and wellbeing. We can all take steps to improve the quality and quantity of our sleep. To find out how, you can register your interest in booking a place on one of the Sleep Clinics being run by our Staff Counselling Service via this link.
The Staff Development pages have details of a range of courses and resources on wellbeing.
Our HR pages include guidance and information on University policies and resources concerning absence and health.
We are committed to providing a positive experience for all staff and students and believe that bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, assault and discrimination are not acceptable.
Our online Report and Support tool enables staff and students to report anonymously, seek advice from an adviser or make a formal complaint.
If you have observed or experienced physical assault, sexual harassment, sexual assault, hate crime, harassment, bullying, discrimination, mental health problems or domestic violence, you can report these directly to us. Or if you are worried about someone else, you can also report this using the tool.
Download our WAP template (Office document, 73kB)
Download our WAP guide for staff (PDF, 122kB)
Find out more about this new wellbeing service for University staff
'None of us are immune to mental health difficulties. We’re committed to helping everyone in our community to cope with any pressures they may face, and to break down the stigma around mental health. There is never a wrong time to simply ask someone how they're feeling and take the time to listen.
'I believe that by working together we can build an environment where our staff and students can thrive, and where all aspects of wellbeing are reflected in every facet of life at Bristol.'
Professor Hugh Brady
Vice-Chancellor and President
