Binn Group leads the way on mental health
and seeking help.
“Knowing there is someone they can speak to in private on site - who will be understanding, supportive and non-judgemental - can make a huge difference for employees.”
In house one-to-one peer support is given by SPEAK founder Rosie McKearnon who battled for many years with her own mental health problems.
She explained: “I know how lonely and overwhelmed you can become when things get on top of you.
“Mental health problems are not something you can shake off.
“Sadly, not everyone feels comfortable seeking help and even if they do, the waiting time to see a professional can be too long for those who are really struggling.
“The workers at Binn Group know I have been at rock bottom and they see that I came through it.
“This background and personal experience make it easier for people to approach and ask for help to deal with their issues.”
Danny stressed that many people don’t want to raise their issues at home and worry family and loved ones. Therefore, an outlet at work Danny McAtear and Rosie McKearnon reckon the new system benefits employees
where they will be listened to and supported is seen as a huge advantage.
“Sometimes they just need to unload and get things in perspective and they know Rosie understands the issues,” he said.
“Others require ongoing support and advanced care which we can access quickly for them.”
To date, around 10 per cent of the Binn Group workforce has stepped forward for that first supportive chat.
“We are now seeing those who have come forward supporting others,” said Rosie. “You know that when the chat in the locker room changes from ‘get a grip’ to ‘do you think I could get to speak to
her too’ that we have breached the barrier. Things are changing - and changing for the better. I’m seeing improvements in the workforce every day.”
Binn Group will be conducting a survey in several months time to identify the impact this groundbreaking collaboration has had.