As celebrations happen across the globe this week in recognition of World Mental Health Day 2020 and tomorrow we bring our third annual MAD World Summit UK to a virtual audience for the first time, mental health is in the spotlight like never before. This is arguably the year mental health is becoming mainstream, and this can only bring change for the better to this global social issue which touches everyone. And it’s why we know that 2020 is the right year for us to be taking our events global.
Heather Kelly, Director of Content for Make a Difference Summit in association with Mind Share Partners shares a preview of our exciting US launch event happening next Thursday, 15 October. And our Make a Difference Asia Partner and Event Director, Cheryl Liew highlights the spotlight on leadership at C-Suite level which will be central to our debut Asia event happening 11 November.
Chris Pinner, Founder of wellbeing service, Innerfit, who will be speaking at MAD World Summit UK, collated insights from a group of business leaders about how to see the challenges of 2020 as opportunities. One key benefit leaders recognise is around staff retention and building a sense of community through investing in employee wellbeing.
The Wellbeing Doctor, Shanna Brewton-Tiayon, who will be a speaker at Make a Difference Summit US, tells us that COVID-19 has completely shifted how employers are approaching employee engagement. She emphasises that those leaders with an eye to maintaining a strong and engaged workforce for the long term are now making wellbeing a priority.
But while it’s important more employers are now acknowledging the importance of supporting staff wellbeing, leaders must keep a finger on the pulse of the challenges staff face in these uncertain times. Business in the Community’s just released study identified pressure as the highest current cause of work-induced mental health issues in 2020. BITC will be covering this research along with recommendations for supporting staff through increased work pressures, online, at MAD World Summit tomorrow.
And finally Paul Devoy, CEO at Investors in People, claims that there should be no question on the return on investment in making wellbeing of staff a priority. It will pay dividends for any employer.
We hope you find this week’s issue enjoyable and valuable and we look forward to seeing you tomorrow at MAD World Summit UK (registration is still open)!
Well wishes,
Heather Kelly
Online Editor, Make a Difference News
