Addressing the ‘mounting challenge’ of poor mental health amongst hospitality workers, Star Pubs is launching free coaching and guidance to help its 200-plus Just Add Talent managed operators.
The half-day interactive certified courses, along with a digital workbook and resources, are designed to help operators spot any of their staff suffering from mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Star hopes this will enable them to start a conversation about their mental health and provide ongoing practical support, creating a ‘healthier and more supportive’ working environment and improving their staff’s well-being.
A recent survey saw no less than 76% of hospitality workers cite poor mental health.
Star operations director Mick Howard said: “There’s a mental health crisis in the population generally, exacerbated by the aftermath of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and the turbulent times in which we’re living.
“Hospitality workers are in the frontline, having the added pressure of interacting with stressed members of the public.
“A poll we did in April among our own managed operators is further proof of the scale of the problem. 88% of respondents said they worked with staff that they believe suffer from poor mental health and 64% had seen staff absences due to mental health issues,” said Howard.
“Mental Health Awareness Week is coming up in May and is the perfect opportunity for operators to naturally raise the subject with their teams,” he suggested.
“The free coaching and guidance that we are providing will give them the skills and confidence they need to address what can be a difficult and sensitive issue.
“There’s a business benefit, too. In a customer facing industry, happy staff are critical to creating an enjoyable customer experience.”
