Businesses in Devon can now access free wellbeing and mental health support for their employees through a new initiative launched by Devon County Council.

Wellbeing Works is offering support until March 2023, backed with £100,000 from Devon County Council’s £6 million recovery programme. The initiative is being delivered on behalf of Devon County Council by independent charity Devon Communities Together.

Wellbeing Works builds upon the Listening Ear pilot project last year which provided business owners with the opportunity to chat informally to an experienced volunteer about whatever was making them feel stressed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The initiative also wants to expand its reach to provide support to individuals who are currently in employment, seeking employment, or are entering into the job market. The project is aimed at Devon-based small to medium enterprises, employees or individuals over 18 and provides free access to one-to-one wellbeing checks and wellbeing workshops.

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet member for economic recovery and skills, said: ‘The last couple of years of the pandemic have been tough on everyone, and businesses and their staff have had to contend with the most severe impact on economic conditions for generations. This initiative is a good opportunity for Devon-based businesses, employees and individuals to benefit from the tools, techniques and inspiration we need to prioritise and develop our wellbeing and resilience during the pandemic recovery period. Looking after your wellbeing is vitally important and if we look after ourselves and each other we can benefit personally and professionally.’

A series of wide-ranging events will be delivered throughout the project which will cover topics such coping with anxiety, return to work, dealing with unemployment and isolation.

For more information visit www.devoncommunities.org.uk/projects/wellbeing-works.