TESTIMONIALS
Number of Employees: 20
Business Sector: Not for Profit
Cork Chambers purpose is to champion Cork as a globally recognised place for business, innovation, and quality of life. As the leading business organisation in the south of Ireland, it supports and represents the interests of almost 1,200 businesses employing over 100,000 people across the region. Our goal in Cork Chamber is to create a team where everyone feels like they belong. We do this through our comprehensive employee wellbeing Chambercare programme.
Cork Chamber has been involved in PSYCHED since its inception in 2017. We were aware of the importance of mental health in the workplace prior to becoming involved however PSYCHED afford us the opportunity to talk about it more within our team and to put into practise some of the learnings as a result of the training. As part of our Chambercare programme we provide weekly emails on mental health, every employee and their families have access to an employee assistance programme free of charge. We have provided training to our employee on different elements associated with mental health for example how to deal with stress, how to switch off from digital channels etc. We continue to do our Lets Talk calls virtually where everyone can meet online for a tea/coffee and a chat etc.
Number of Employees: 240-280
Business Sector: BMD is a mechanical contractor to the multinational Bio-pharmaceutical and the Pharmaceutical industry
A few years ago BMD had two work colleagues die by suicide. Following these tragedies, BMD senior management decided that as a company more needed to be done to highlighting suicide awareness within the organisation. BMD senior management knew that they couldn’t do this alone so they contacted the Cobh based suicide awareness group called “Breaking the Silence”. This lead to BMD management meeting with a volunteer from “Breaking the Silence member Jimmy Losty. Both BMD and Jimmy discussed the BMD objectives, to talk to employees about suicide awareness as BMD had never presented talks like this before with its workforce.
BMD workforce is spread around the Munster area, so they had small groups came together to hear Jimmy Losty talk about suicide awareness. BMD opened these talks to everyone as suicide affects everyone in some way or form.
During the month over 500 people attended the talks. The feedback from attendees was very positive, a lot of these people were never at these kind of talks and some said that they spoke to partners/brothers /sisters /parents about the talks they attended on suicide awareness afterwards.
Following the suicide awareness initiative, BMD launched the VHI Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This is a free confidential counselling and information service which all BMD Employees and their family members can avail of, with support is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. BMD continue to promote suicide awareness to all employees through its internal BMD Newsletter and the VHI employee assistance program newsletter and seminars.
Psyched have kindly addressed and promoted better mental health on a few of our work areas especially around “construction safety week” each year. BMD are glad that Psyched have been there to help when we needed them.
Number of Employees: –
Business Sector: Community Development Project
TVG is a community development project based in Cork City, with a staff team of Travellers and settled people working together to support the development of the Traveller community in all aspects of their lives in Cork.
Their work includes one to one support, group work, education-based programmes, family support, childcare and a drop-in support service. The project has a health programme, drugs and alcohol support project, education programme and a crèche.
Self-care is of great importance in TVG with all staff and regular check-in with line managers to look at work load, stress management and best self-care practices are discussed and encouraged.
All staff are required to set 1.5 hours aside in their working week, to participate in team regrouping, sharing of information and planning of work over a cup of tea/coffee (online during remote working). These sessions are also used to invite individuals in from other organisations, chosen by staff, to get a sense of other things that are happening in the community that they can learn about.
Each staff member is well supported through a one-hour monthly supervision by their line manager
TVG has a staff team building day every summer and takes on a variety of activities including salsa dancing, zip wire, learning of popular pop song dance routines, hiking, activities at Ballyhass Lakes etc.
TVG Co-Directors operate an open door policy inviting team members to talk to them about any issues that may be causing stress or conflict at work.
The Co-Directors schedule training days on mental health awareness and personal development courses such as stress management throughout the year.
Number of Employees: 1,000+
Business Sector: Health & Social Care Setting
St. Finbarrs Hospital Campus dates back to 1877 and is situated on a 26 acre site in the heart of Cork City, with a total compliment of ∼1000 staff. The campus operates busy outpatient services (i.e. Blood Bank, Child Health Clinics, Dental & Orthodontic Services, Assessment and Treatment Centre, Mental Health, Community physiotherapy and occupational therapy, Colposcopy, Social Work and many more services) and has four residential hospital facilities on site which cater for older persons who require a high level of person-centred nursing and medical care. In addition the campus is an administrative hub for many other health service-related departments.
A small Health and Wellbeing staff committee oversees health and wellbeing initiatives on campus supported through Healthy Ireland and the HSE. Participation in the Cork Healthy Cities PSYCHED initiative is actively encouraged in promoting positive mental and physical health for staff.
To date the campus has implemented a 1.15 Km Walkway to Health marked for staff and service users to use. A communal staff bike scheme is available for staff to facilitate lunchtime cycling and short trips to meetings. Access to outdoor patient gym granted to staff for lunchtime use. Weekly lunchtime meditation & Mindfulness Classes and beginner Yoga classes for staff free of charge every Mon – Wednesday at lunchtime throughout the year. A Staff choir meets every Wed at lunchtime. Staff team based step challenges have run across the campus annually since 2017. Lunchtime walks in aid of HSE national campaigns such as Valentine’s Day “Love Life Love Walking” and “Steps for Health” National HSE Steps challenge are encouraged as well as events to mark National Workplace Wellbeing day are organised each year.
Following a request from staff, a staff shower block is available to staff to facilitate exercising during the workday and a dedicated space on campus for staff wellbeing which displays the Look After Your Mental Health – Little Things campaign posters – a quiet space for reflection and staff exercise facility is available for use at any time of the day. A therapy garden is also managed by staff for residents with a vegetable/flower polytunnel. More recent initiatives (since COVID) include the provision of outdoor seating areas to aid with physical distancing to promote outdoor lunch breaks for staff.
Arema Connect
At Arema Connect, the wellbeing of staff is a core priority driven by strong and supportive leadership. Senior management consistently hold regular one-on-one sessions with team members to provide guidance, offer feedback, and ensure individual development is nurtured in a meaningful way.
Recognising the importance of connection—especially in a hybrid and remote work environment—Arema Connect organises weekly Zoom catch-ups. These virtual meetings help maintain a sense of community, ensuring that all employees feel engaged, supported, and included regardless of their work location.
Furthermore, Arema Connect proudly upholds a comprehensive Equality and Diversity policy. This commitment ensures that every individual is treated with dignity and respect, helping to foster a truly inclusive and welcoming workplace culture.
BMD
At BMD, the mental health and wellbeing of our team is a top priority. Through initiatives like the “Mind Your Head” poster campaign and the introduction of trained Mental Health First Aiders on site, we ensure that every employee has access to the support they need when they need it most.
In addition to ongoing support, BMD has actively hosted a range of mental health-focused activities aimed at raising awareness and encouraging open conversations. These have included informative workshops on drug and alcohol awareness, guided meditation sessions to promote relaxation and mindfulness, and engaging talks delivered by respected organisations such as the Lighthouse Club, Laya Healthcare, and AWARE.
These initiatives reflect BMD’s ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and healthy work environment for all.
City General Hospital
At City General Hospitality, staff wellbeing is a key priority supported by thoughtful initiatives and a strong sense of community. The Wellness Committee meets regularly to plan and implement activities that promote mental and physical health across the organisation. Complementing this, the Mindfulness Group provides employees with a dedicated space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with themselves in a calm and supportive environment.
To further strengthen workplace connections, City General Hospitality organises a variety of social events throughout the year. From lively Summer Socials to relaxed Coffee Mornings, these gatherings bring together employees from different departments, helping to build friendships and foster a positive, inclusive culture.
These initiatives reflect the organisation’s commitment to creating a supportive and engaging workplace where staff feel valued and connected.
Cliste Hospitality
Cliste Hospitality, promoting staff wellbeing is embedded in the company’s culture through a thoughtful and proactive strategy. Regular wellbeing campaigns and appreciation events—such as the Green Ribbon campaign and Thank You Thursday—help bring the team together, fostering a sense of unity through small but meaningful acts of recognition and weekly treats.
In addition to these initiatives, Cliste Hospitality provides a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). This valuable resource offers employees access to a range of supports, including digital gym classes and mental health webinars, ensuring that both physical and emotional wellbeing are prioritised.
Community Healthcare Network CHN 10 – West Cork
At Community Healthcare Network, staff wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We prioritise open communication and team support by regularly holding staff meetings and creating meaningful opportunities for feedback.
We also recognise the importance of work-life balance and have implemented flexible work arrangements to help staff better manage their time. By allowing employees to tailor their schedules to meet personal and family commitments, we create a more balanced and supportive work environment.
A wide range of wellbeing resources are provided empowering our team to take charge of their mental health and manage stress effectively. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to creating a healthy, inclusive, and supportive workplace for all.
Cork Chamber
At Cork Chamber, staff wellbeing is truly a priority. They offer a wide range of resources designed to support mental health and overall wellness, including Mental Health First Aid Training, regular wellbeing emails, team-building events, and massage therapy.
Their innovative ‘An Hour for You’ programme provides staff with dedicated time for self-care, while the Wellbeing Room offers a quiet, relaxing space to recharge during the workday.
Cork Chamber also demonstrates a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, with the recent launch of an Inclusion Handbook and a Neurodiversity Policy. These initiatives reflect a workplace culture that values every individual and supports holistic wellbeing.
Cork City Libraries
At Cork City Libraries, staff wellbeing is actively supported through a wide range of initiatives designed to foster personal and professional growth. The organisation offers regular training opportunities, supports themed staff groups, and ensures that Personal Development Plans are accessible to all employees, helping them to thrive in their roles and feel valued in their contributions.
Cork City Libraries also promotes a healthy work-life balance by supporting flexible working patterns. This approach recognises the diverse needs of staff and encourages a more balanced and fulfilling work experience.
Mental health is a key focus, with the organisation prominently displaying the “Five Tips for Mental Health at Work” and sharing them internally as part of a broader wellbeing strategy. Staff also regularly participate in PSYCHED workshops, including sessions like the Kindness Workshop and various introductory mental health modules, which further enhance awareness and wellbeing across the team.
Cork City Council
Cork City Council places a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing by fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture. Social interaction is actively encouraged through initiatives such as the Workplace Choir, the Council Football Team, participation in the Interfirm Dragon Boat Challenge, and an Amateur Dramatics group—all helping to build camaraderie and community among colleagues.
The Council also supports flexible work patterns, recognising the importance of balancing individual staff needs with organisational goals.
Staff wellbeing is further reinforced through clear policies, including the Dignity at Work policy, which promotes a respectful and supportive work environment. In addition, Cork City Council raises awareness of important health issues through initiatives such as Menopause Awareness Day, reflecting a thoughtful and inclusive approach to staff care.
Cork County Council
Cork County Council demonstrates a proactive approach to promoting staff mental health and wellbeing. A key initiative was the Work Positive Survey, which assessed both physical and psychological risks within the organisation, ensuring a safer and more supportive work environment.
The Council also hosted a successful Workplace Wellbeing Week, which included a Financial Wellbeing webinar attended by over 250 staff members—highlighting their commitment to holistic staff support.
In addition, Cork County Council encourages participation in national awareness campaigns such as the Green Ribbon Campaign and offers access to Psyched workshops, further supporting mental health education and awareness among staff.
CUH Medical Records
At CUH Medical Records, staff mental health and wellbeing are actively supported through open and honest communication. Open discussions about workplace issues and challenges are encouraged and integrated into everyday work life, fostering a culture of trust and mutual support.
The department has also completed a psychosocial risk assessment, helping staff to better understand and manage workplace stressors in a proactive way.
In addition, team members have participated in wellbeing-focused workshops such as Introduction to Psyched and the Kindness Workshop, reflecting CUH Medical Records’ ongoing commitment to creating a compassionate and mentally healthy workplace.
Dementia Care Co-ordinator Services
At Dementia Care Co-ordinator Services, staff wellbeing is supported through regular team connection and professional development. Regular team meetings and an annual meet-up help maintain strong relationships and a sense of unity across the team.
Over the past year, the service has placed increased emphasis on staff development and self-care by dedicating time to study days and health and wellbeing days, allowing team members to recharge and grow professionally.
A key strength of the organisation is its open and collaborative culture, which encourages honest dialogue between operational and management staff and the wider team of community dementia support workers.
Eye, Ear and Throat Campus
The Eye, Ear and Throat Campus places a strong focus on staff wellbeing and connection across departments. Initiatives such as the “Whole Building Coffee & Connects,” including the much-loved annual Christmas Festive Cheer event, help strengthen morale and create a sense of community throughout the campus.
To support daily wellbeing, the campus has developed an onsite garden sanctuary—a peaceful space where staff can relax, connect with colleagues, or enjoy a quiet lunch break.
In addition, the campus actively supports major health awareness campaigns, including SunSmart, See Change Green Ribbon, and Men’s Health Week, promoting a culture of health, openness, and care for all staff.
HSE Borg Warner Wellness at Work
HSE Borg Warner’s Wellness at Work programme is a shining example of how a workplace can actively support the mental health and wellbeing of its staff. A range of initiatives—including lunchtime walks, creative art sessions, stretch breaks, and the introduction of plants into the office—have helped create a more positive and energising work environment.
The team has also introduced a Wellness Notice Board filled with mental health resources, alongside a Gratitude Wall that encourages staff to share uplifting messages and moments of appreciation.
Ongoing activities such as yoga sessions, health checks, and regular staff lunches continue to foster connection, reduce stress, and promote a culture of wellbeing across the organisation.
HSE Cork North Community Work Department
The HSE Cork North Community Work Department demonstrates a strong and ongoing commitment to promoting staff mental health and wellbeing. Staff are actively encouraged to participate in evidence-based programmes such as SAFE TALK and ASIST, which build awareness and skills around mental health and suicide prevention.
The department has also established Mental Health Champions—staff members who advocate for wellbeing and help foster a supportive, stigma-free workplace culture.
In addition, there is a high level of engagement with PSYCHED resources. Staff report regular use and awareness of materials such as the “Five Tips for Mental Health at Work” posters, which are displayed throughout the workplace and shared digitally, reinforcing key messages for daily mental wellbeing.
HSE Killorglin Wellness at Work
At HSE Killorglin Wellness at Work, staff wellbeing is clearly a top priority, and it shows in everything they do. One of the most impactful initiatives has been the six-week lunchtime mindfulness course, which many of us found incredibly helpful in managing stress and improving overall mental wellbeing. It provided a much-needed pause in our busy days and helped us build lasting skills to support our mental health.
Another great initiative is the lunchtime walking group, which gives staff the chance to connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.
Murals of the local area throughout the building create a warm and inviting atmosphere — it really feels like a space that values and supports its people.
Home Support Service, Newmarket Primary Care Centre
At Home Support Service, Newmarket Primary Care Centre, staff wellbeing is more than just a goal — it’s part of the culture. There’s a genuine sense of support and openness here, where staff feel comfortable discussing challenges with one another, building strong, trusting relationships that make a real difference in day-to-day work.
A key part of this positive atmosphere is the presence of designated mental health promotion champions. Their ongoing efforts to raise awareness and promote mental health have helped create a workplace where wellbeing is openly valued and actively supported.
Inspired
Inspired truly sets the standard for promoting staff wellbeing in the workplace. Their Employment Assistance Programme is accessible to all staff, ensuring everyone has support when they need it.
They regularly organise wellness-focused events, including soothing sound bath sessions and a dedicated Wellbeing Month every May, which really emphasises their commitment to mental and physical health.
Additionally, weekly team walks and team-building activities during Training Days foster a strong sense of community and help maintain a healthy, active workplace culture. Inspirer’s holistic approach to wellbeing makes it a fantastic place to work.
The Irish Wheelchair Association
The Irish Wheelchair Association demonstrates a strong commitment to staff wellbeing through thoughtful and inclusive policies. Their updated leave policies now reflect modern needs, offering options such as parental leave, bereavement leave, and domestic violence leave, ensuring staff feel supported during challenging times.
Regular quarterly check-in calls and support group meetings foster a caring and connected work environment.
Additionally, their dedication to strengthening mental health supports is evident through participation in the Introduction to PSYCHED training. The Irish Wheelchair Association’s proactive approach to wellbeing truly creates a supportive and resilient workplace.
Irving Oil
Irving Oil has shown dedication to promoting staff wellbeing. Mental health is thoughtfully integrated into their turnaround induction training, with a focus on essential topics like sleep, routine, and stress management.
Their commitment continues with weekly mental health segments during team meetings that provide practical tools to help staff manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Additionally, 2024 marked their third year hosting the inspiring Darkness Into Light event, featuring talented musicians and singers, which highlights their ongoing support for mental health awareness in the community. Irving Oil’s comprehensive approach truly fosters a supportive and healthy workplace.
Kiernan Engineering
Kiernan Engineering Contractors exemplifies a strong commitment to staff wellbeing through their comprehensive Annual Workplace Mental Health Plan, which supports the mental and emotional health of all employees.
Their awareness and education initiatives, including a Mental Health Kick-off Workshop, effectively introduce key topics such as recognising signs of stress and burnout, along with practical coping strategies.
Moreover, their flexible work policies—offering mental health days and remote work options—demonstrate a genuine understanding of the diverse needs of their workforce.
Le Cheile
Le Cheile demonstrates a deep commitment to staff wellbeing through regular group supervision sessions with a psychologist every 6 to 8 weeks, providing a structured and safe space for reflection and support.
Building on recent CPD training in Trauma and Trauma-Informed Practice, they have thoughtfully restructured their supervision model to address the impact of vicarious trauma on staff working in emotionally demanding environments. This approach reflects their genuine care for the mental health and resilience of their team, fostering a supportive and sustainable workplace culture.
Let’s Grow Together
Let’s Grow Together prioritises the wellbeing of their staff by ensuring all team members have access to reflective supervision processes. These provide a safe and supportive space for staff to explore personal challenges and foster growth.
Additionally, their reflective practice groups, especially designed for frontline service teams, offer invaluable opportunities for staff to connect, share experiences, and support one another. This thoughtful approach highlights Lets Grow Together’s dedication to creating a nurturing and resilient workplace.
Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre
Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre has demonstrated a wonderful commitment to staff wellbeing through creative and inclusive initiatives. Their six-week embroidery course, offered via the Make-or-Break initiative, provides staff with a meaningful way to unwind and practice mindfulness.
The Desk to 5km program kicked off the year with a lunchtime walking group that quickly became a popular opportunity for physical activity and social connection among staff.
Additionally, the communal Christmas lunch, featuring homemade dishes contributed by staff and a heartfelt performance by the Singing for the Brain choir from the North Cork Dementia Alliance, truly fostered a sense of community and warmth. MPHC’s dedication to nurturing both mental and social wellbeing makes it an inspiring workplace.
Marymount Hospice
Marymount Hospice’s onsite counselling services offer confidential, one-on-one support for staff and volunteers to address stress, anxiety, and conflict management.
The Employee Assistance Programme extends valuable resources, including life coaching, financial advice, and career guidance, not only for staff but also for their families.
Additionally, an active Sports and Social Club fosters team bonding and encourages physical activity, while ongoing health challenges motivate staff to stay engaged in movement for both physical and mental wellbeing. Marymount Hospice’s dedication to holistic support creates a caring and resilient workplace environment.
Mayfield CDP
25.Mayfield CDP
Mayfield CDP have gone above and beyond by organising multiple WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) courses, providing valuable tools for personal wellness and resilience.
Their Self-Care Wellness Morning was a wonderful initiative, offering a diverse range of activities like ear acupuncture, drum fit, and insightful talks on the impact of social media on wellbeing—benefiting both staff and community members alike.
Their dedication shines through with bi-weekly check-ins during staff meetings, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Mayfield CDP sets a high standard for fostering a culture of care and wellbeing.
Mick Whelan Safety Services
Mick Whelan Safety Services is proud to have renewed its PSYCHED Workplace Recognition for 2024/25, reflecting its ongoing commitment to promoting staff wellbeing.
Their dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is exemplified by their support for personnel who were employed under the Partial Capacity Benefit Scheme. Such personnel have thrived in employment with MWSS and are now valuable assets to the team, benefiting from extensive training and skill development.
Mick Whelan Safety Services truly demonstrates how inclusive practices and staff support go hand in hand to create a positive and thriving workplace.
Pepsico
PepsiCo’s commitment to staff wellbeing is evident. One of the standout initiatives has been the introduction of Mental Health First Aid, with 40 employees now certified. This group has grown into a vibrant, supportive community that meets regularly to share insights and address common challenges — helping to foster a culture where mental health is openly discussed and supported.
Building on this foundation, Mental Health First Aid is now part of a broader programme called Healthy Mind, a key element of PepsiCo’s holistic approach to wellbeing. This initiative plays a crucial role in promoting engagement and encouraging proactive steps towards mental health across the entire PEP Ireland community.
In addition, Mental Wellbeing Manager Awareness Training, delivered in collaboration with LAYA, has equipped 76 people leaders across all functions with the tools and understanding needed to support their teams effectively.
Safefood
Safefood has created an exciting calendar of wellness activities that truly engage staff, from Chair Pilates and guided meditation for World Mental Health Day, to weekly fresh fruit deliveries and opportunities to give back through volunteering. These thoughtful initiatives bring energy and balance into the workplace.
The sense of community has also been strengthened through the creation of multiple social clubs on Seafood’s internal communication portal, as well as online lunch-and-learn sessions that bring colleagues together around topics that matter.
Perhaps most importantly, Safefood has shown real leadership by establishing a dedicated wellbeing team, backed by the CEO and a specific budget. This team is focused on improving employee health, reducing stress, and building a more connected and engaged workforce.
Safeguarding and Protection Team HSE South West
The Safeguarding and Protection Team, HSE South West, has cultivated a truly supportive and positive work environment, where staff wellbeing is a clear priority. Their initiatives are thoughtful and impactful — from mindfulness activities and motivational resources, to affirming personal workspaces that help create a calm and uplifting atmosphere.
The team’s commitment to professional and personal growth is evident in their use of reflective practice, supervision, and coaching. A strong growth mindset is at the heart of their approach, with a focus on shared learning and collaboration that strengthens both individual confidence and team cohesion.
Programmes like ASIST and SAFE TALK reflect their proactive stance on mental health awareness, ensuring staff feel equipped, supported, and valued every step of the way.
Shannonvale Foods
At Shannonvale Foods, staff wellbeing is truly a part of the company culture. One of the standout moments was our Diversity and Inclusion Day, where we celebrated the cultural richness of our team through shared stories and refreshments from around the world — a joyful reminder of the strength that comes from diversity.
As part of Mental Health Month, the company provided meaningful support by sharing the Five Ways to Wellbeing through accessible materials like posters, bookmarks, and links to trusted mental health resources, including Shine and Pieta. These efforts made mental health a visible, open, and approachable topic in our daily workplace conversations.
To further support our team, especially new joiners, Shannonvale Foods developed a comprehensive Wellbeing Guide. It includes vital information about local healthcare, transport, and mental health services, helping employees feel informed, supported, and welcomed from day one.
Solace Café, Cork Mental Health
At Solace Café Cork Mental Health, staff wellbeing is clearly a central priority — and it shows in the everyday support and care offered to the team. From wellness courses and regular supervision (both onsite and external), to self-care opportunities and social events like pizza nights, there’s a genuine commitment to creating a healthy, connected, and positive work environment.
Solace Café goes a step further by offering flexibility for staff pursuing further studies, along with limited financial support for continued professional development. This investment in both personal and professional growth reflects a deep understanding that supporting staff wellbeing means supporting their ambitions, balance, and long-term fulfilment.
St Finbarr’s Hospital Campus Wellbeing and Green Team Committee
At St Finbarr’s Hospital Campus, the Wellbeing and Green Team Committee has created a truly nurturing environment that supports staff in both body and mind. The introduction of the Wellness Room has been a meaningful addition — offering a peaceful, on-site space where staff can pause, reflect, and take mindfulness breaks to support their mental wellbeing throughout the day.
One of the most heartwarming and unifying initiatives has been the staff Choir, which continues to thrive and even draws retired colleagues back each week. It’s a beautiful example of how shared joy and connection can strengthen workplace culture.
In addition, a wide range of initiatives — including outdoor seating areas, yoga and mindfulness classes, and the engaging “Adopt a Planter Box” project — have brought staff closer to nature and to each other, encouraging relaxation, creativity, and a sense of ownership and pride in the campus environment.
St. Mary’s Health Campus
At St Mary’s Health Campus, staff wellbeing is embraced with creativity and community spirit. The introduction of the Smoothie Bike was a fun and engaging way to promote healthy living — staff enjoyed pedalling to blend their own smoothies while sampling free fruit and exploring new recipe ideas.
Bringing people together across departments, the Long Puc event celebrated our shared heritage with a traditional game of hurling, fostering teamwork and connection.
The campus is also brightened by a mural wall dedicated to all staff, residents, and families, a beautiful symbol of unity and support made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Health & Wellbeing Committee and Campus Management.
St. Michaels National School
At St Michaels National School, the wellbeing of staff is thoughtfully supported through consistent and caring initiatives. Regular staff check-ins every five weeks provide an important opportunity to offer positive feedback and listen to any concerns, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.
The school’s commitment to wellbeing is further demonstrated through their pursuit of an Amber Flag, which began last August. Initiatives like the Daily Mile and Wellbeing Week have been integral parts of this journey, encouraging both physical activity and mental wellness.
A truly unique and heartwarming addition to the school is Biscuit, an Autism Assistance Dog Ireland dog. Biscuit greets every pupil each morning and spends time in different classrooms throughout the day. Her presence has had a profoundly positive impact on both staff and pupils, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere that benefits the entire school community.
Sterling Pharma Solutions
Sterling Pharma Solutions truly values the wellbeing of its staff by fostering a strong sense of community and support. Their active Sports & Social Club, along with department team-building days and intergenerational events like family summer BBQs and Christmas parties, bring everyone together and create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
The company’s peer support model promotes teamwork and mutual assistance, helping staff feel connected and supported every day.
Innovative initiatives like the Lakeview Room, a peaceful space for reflection or meditation, and the “Be Well” programme, which offers practical wellbeing strategies for everyday life, demonstrate Sterling Pharma Solutions’ commitment to holistic staff wellbeing.
The Kingsley Hotel
At The Kingsley Hotel, staff wellbeing is championed by the dedicated K-Well team, whose commitment to mental health and wellness is felt throughout the entire hotel. Their leadership ensures that wellbeing is not just talked about, but truly embedded in the culture.
A highlight of their efforts is Wellbeing Wednesday, held once a month, where a range of activities encourages staff connection, engagement, and a renewed focus on self-care.
Further reflecting their deep commitment, the hotel has trained 10 staff members as certified Mental Health First Aiders, providing vital support and creating a safe, caring environment for the whole team.
The Radisson Hotel
The Radisson Hotel sets a high standard when it comes to promoting staff wellbeing, particularly within the challenging hospitality industry. Through initiatives like the Burnt Chef Project, the hotel educates staff about mental health, helping to break down stigma and foster understanding.
A strong commitment to work-life balance is demonstrated by actively promoting the Right to Disconnect policy, ensuring that team members can fully unwind and recharge outside of their working hours.
Adding a thoughtful touch to weekly routines, Thank You Thursday brings appreciation treats to the canteen, recognising and celebrating the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
TUSLA
TUSLA demonstrates a strong and compassionate commitment to staff wellbeing through meaningful and wide-reaching initiatives. With 97 Wellbeing Ambassadors recruited, frontline staff have direct access to support and advocacy, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
The organisation also offers a comprehensive 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, giving staff around-the-clock access to counselling and a variety of support services, which is invaluable in supporting mental health and resilience.
In addition, TUSLA provides specialised Critical Incident Stress Management and groupwork support, delivered by expert mental health professionals, offering essential care in times of high stress.
UCC
UCC has shown a genuine and ongoing commitment to promoting staff wellbeing through a variety of thoughtful and impactful initiatives. During Wellbeing Week, staff are offered access to engaging and informative sessions such as the 5 Ways to Wellbeing talk and a Masterclass on Anxiety, providing valuable tools for managing mental health.
The university’s “Let’s Talk” programme addresses critical and sometimes difficult topics including self-care, suicide awareness, and gender-specific mental health concerns, creating an open and supportive environment for discussion.
Additionally, UCC offers a range of vital resources including bereavement training, a peer support group, and access to HSE Suicide Protection and Awareness training, ensuring that staff have the support they need at every step.
Westgate Foundation
At Westgate Foundation, staff wellbeing is nurtured through ongoing commitment and thoughtful initiatives. Over the past three years, the team has actively participated in Psyched workshops and even hosted a session with a Psyched representative, helping to build awareness and resilience across the organisation.
Simple but meaningful activities like coffee and tea breaks, walks in the park, and placing flowers in everyone’s office have created a warm, positive, and connected atmosphere that truly supports staff wellbeing.
The Foundation also provides free counselling sessions and fosters a culture of openness by consistently encouraging staff to approach managers whenever they need support.