Mates in Ming, a leading UK charity raising awareness and addressing the stigma of poor mental health, will be present during IFSEC and FIREX between 16 and 18 May at London Excel to promote positive mental wellbeing within the workplace.
Exhibitors and visitors will be able to meet with representatives from Mates in Mind to understand the work they do, how companies and individuals can contribute to combatting mental health challenges, plus accessing their support services and toolkits.
A free to attend panel discussion will also be hosted, with representatives from Mates in Mind, FIA and BSIA in the FIREX Expertise & Guidance Seminar Theatre on Wednesday 17 May.
This discussion will focus on identifying and supporting mental health issues in the workplace, in addition to a presentation of the current research and evidence Mates in Mind has gathered from the wider construction sector.
In view of the security and fire industries’ positions within the construction sector, it is a natural progression to provide the charity with a focused opportunity to engage with the wider audience at IFSEC and FIREX.
Gerry Dunphy, IFSEC & FIREX Event Director said: “IFSEC and FIREX have recognised the industries are made up of a wide range of businesses, organisations and stakeholders where the stresses and challenges are formidable and widespread.
“From lone working to having to manage a business in an uncertain economic climate, the pressures on individuals are immense, which makes organisations such as Mates in Mind profoundly important.
“We are privileged to be able to provide Mates in Mind with a platform to connect with the security and fire sectors and we look forward to working with them at the shows.”
Mike Reddington, Chief Executive, British Security Industry Association commented: “We have a considerable number of BSIA Members whose employees operate on a lone worker basis, many of whom operate in stressful and challenging environments.
“The impacts of poor mental health and wellbeing can often go unseen so we are delighted to see Mates in Mind have direct input into this year’s IFSEC.
“BSIA members will be able to meet the Mates in Mind team at the show and we look forward to providing an opportunity for you to start a conversation on this critically important subject.”
Sarah Meek, Managing Director, Mates in Mind charity concludes: “Through this exciting new partnership, Mates in Mind is really pleased to have this opportunity to raise awareness of why a positive and proactive approach to mental health is so important and how we can provide practical support to teams of any size through our work.
“We are looking forward to working in collaboration with FIA and BSIA members and starting these important conversations at the IFSEC and FIREX events in May.”
(Source: IFSEC)
(Image: Twitter)
