ACAS has launched new guidance on reasonable adjustments for mental health at work.

Mental health awareness is gaining momentum in the workplace. Employers are becoming more aware of the need and benefits of supporting their employees’ mental health in the workplace. Mental health conditions can have a significant impact on an individual’s wellbeing, productivity, and job satisfaction, so it’s essential that employers take them seriously and provide appropriate support.

The new guidance from ACAS  covers:

What reasonable adjustments for mental health are

Reasonable adjustments for mental health at work are a welcome resource for both employers and workers. Reasonable adjustments are changes that can be made to the workplace or working arrangements to support an employee with a mental health condition. These adjustments can help to ensure that the employee can perform their job effectively and remain in employment.

Examples of reasonable adjustments for mental health

The guidance provides examples of reasonable adjustments for mental health, such as allowing flexible working hours or providing additional support from a mental health professional.

Responding to reasonable adjustments for mental health requests

The guidance also offers advice on how to request and respond to requests for reasonable adjustments, how to manage employees with reasonable adjustments in place, and how to review policies with mental health in mind.

Managing employees with reasonable adjustments for mental health

Importantly, the guidance stresses the need to manage conversations around mental health with sensitivity and support. It can be challenging for individuals to disclose a mental health condition, and employers need to create an environment where employees feel comfortable doing so.

Reviewing policies with mental health in mind

Mental health is a rapidly evolving field, it is therefore important to regularly review and update policies on supporting employees with mental health concerns. Employers can create a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture that benefits everyone. When reviewing a policy, it is essential to consider several key issues

Overall, the new guidance from ACAS is a valuable resource for anyone looking to support mental health in the workplace. By providing clear and practical advice, it can help employers to create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that benefits everyone.

If you seeking assistance for your organisation’s mental health policies and well-being strategies, we can help you source an HRi accredited HR consultant to work with your business.