SPRING 2022 MENTAL HEALTH The past two years have been tough for businesses and employees, but there is plenty of support out there if you are struggling with mental health LOOK AFTER yourself The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great deal of stress and worry for small businesses and the self-employed across the UK. So its more important than ever to make sure you take steps to support your mental health, as well as that of your employees. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has curated a list of charities and resources that you might find useful during this time. Together with Mental Health at Work, it has created a toolkit containing everything small businesses and the self-employed need to know about taking care of their wellbeing. There are additional resources on the FSB Mental Health Hub. FSB Care has been supporting its members throughout the pandemic with strategies for coping and resilience, as well as offering help with long-term health conditions. Its more important than ever to make sure you are taking steps to support your own mental health Credit: Karen Woolley, development manager, Federation of Small Businesses Image: iStock / pepifoto, iStock / Oleksandr Khoma Mental health charity Mind has issued tailored support for mental health in the wake of COVID-19, including tips for taking care of your mental health if you have been asked to work from home. The government also offers advice for people with specific mental health needs on the gov.uk website. Heads Together has created a Workplace Wellbeing hub that includes resources and free online training for small and medium-sized enterprises, to promote better mental wellbeing in the workplace. The NHS Coronavirus hub collects information and guidance in one place, covering symptoms, testing, at-risk groups and self-isolation. These are difficult times for everyone, and you may not feel that you can turn to friends or family for support. The Samaritans remain ready to take calls and have produced advice on looking after the mental health of yourself and others during the pandemic. You can call the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258. For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service