Employers and employees throughout BC who work in the tourism, hospitality and community social services sectors now have access to vital mental health resources with the creation of a digital resource hub.
The online hub offers a range of tools to help address common workplace concerns, such as bullying, harassment, COVID-19 exposure, coping with stress and more.
“The pandemic has had a devastating impact on people working in tourism, hospitality and social services,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “I’m grateful to workplace leaders stepping up to promote positive mental health for their employees. This will have a lasting impact on people in the months and years ahead.”
The new hub provides workshops, webinars and information to help employees manage stress and build resiliency. It also provides tangible steps for workers at all levels to improve their overall mental health, as well as navigation support to connect to other mental health services, including counselling and peer support. To access the hub, visit www.workmentalhealthbc.ca
“Workplace mental health has taken on significant and new meaning as we continue to respond to the impacts of the pandemic,” said Jonny Morris, CEO of Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division (CMHA BC). “Whether you’re an employee worried about your own or a colleague’s mental health, or someone interested in improving mental health across your organization, today’s launch of BC’s Workplace Mental Health Hub is such an important step to help workplaces learn, train and inspire change. We are proud to be partnering with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, industry and sector leaders, and workplaces on this critically important initiative.”
In May 2021, the hub will expand to include a made-in-BC training and coaching platform that will provide managers and leaders in these sectors with personalized guidance to help make meaningful and lasting change at work. Participants will gain knowledge and practical tools, apply learning and strengthen peer connections to help make continuous improvements that support the long-term well-being of their employees.
The hub is being developed by CMHA BC in partnership with the Province of BC and health and safety associations, such as go2HR.
The new hub augments existing mental health supports for workers in the long-term care and continuing-care sector, including the Care for Caregivers website and Care to Speak peer support service. Both services received major uptake from healthcare workers throughout the province. The hub builds on this success and provides more workplace sectors with the mental health supports they need.