“Following the success of the SHINE Awards on 9th October, which celebrated alcohol-free workplace wellbeing and shone a spotlight on mental health in the UK,” says Steve Jones, Deputy CEO of Steps Together Group, “At Steps Together, we see first-hand the impact that stress, poor mental health, and addiction can have on individuals and organisations alike. Workplace wellbeing isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential for building healthy, productive teams. Here are my top 10 practical tips for embedding wellbeing into your workplace every day.”

1. Prioritise Mental Health Awareness

Mental health remains an area that is often overlooked in many workplaces, even though 1 in 6 employees in the UK experiences mental health issues each year. Educating staff about mental health is a vital first step in reducing stigma and encouraging early intervention. Workshops, team discussions, and webinars focusing on stress management, resilience, and spotting early signs of burnout can make a tangible difference. Steve Jones highlights, “When employees feel that their mental health is understood and supported, they are more likely to seek help before challenges escalate. This proactive approach benefits both individuals and the wider organisation.” Visible support from leadership, posters, and communication campaigns all reinforce the message that wellbeing is a priority. Ultimately, raising awareness not only improves morale but reduces absenteeism and boosts overall productivity.

2. Lead by Example

Culture flows from the top. Leaders who prioritise their own wellbeing signal to employees that it’s safe and acceptable to do the same. Steve Jones notes, “Leadership sets the tone. If managers openly take breaks, manage workloads healthily, and engage in wellbeing initiatives themselves, staff are more likely to feel permission to do the same.” This can be as simple as encouraging staff to take lunch away from their desks, switching off emails after hours, or participating in mindfulness or fitness programs. Leading by example creates a culture of accountability and care, helping staff to understand that the organisation genuinely values their mental and physical wellbeing. Over time, this approach strengthens loyalty, reduces burnout, and increases overall engagement.

3. Promote Flexible Working

Flexibility is a cornerstone of modern workplace wellbeing. Allowing employees to adapt working hours or locations to fit personal circumstances can significantly reduce stress and improve work-life balance. This includes hybrid working models, staggered shifts, or clear boundaries around after-hours communication. Steve Jones explains, “Flexibility isn’t just about convenience, it’s about recognising that employees have lives outside of work. Supporting this balance improves motivation, focus, and loyalty.” Organisations that embrace flexible working often see higher engagement, reduced absenteeism, and stronger psychological safety, all of which contribute to long-term business success.

4. Foster Open Communication

Open dialogue in the workplace encourages employees to share concerns, ideas, or personal challenges without fear of judgement. Creating safe spaces, whether through regular check-ins, anonymous feedback systems, or open-door policies, is essential. Steve Jones emphasises, “Employees thrive when they feel heard. Clear channels for communication build trust and make it easier to address stressors before they escalate.” Regular team meetings, wellbeing surveys, and informal chats can all contribute to a culture of transparency and support. When employees know that their voices matter, engagement and productivity improve, and staff retention benefits as well.

5. Encourage Physical Activity

Physical health is closely linked to mental health. Regular movement can reduce stress, increase energy, and improve focus. Organisations can encourage physical activity through initiatives such as walking meetings, lunchtime exercise classes, access to gym facilities, or company-sponsored fitness challenges. Steve Jones notes, “Movement doesn’t just keep the body healthy, it helps clear the mind and fosters resilience. Simple interventions can make a huge difference to overall wellbeing.” Incorporating physical activity into daily routines signals that the organisation values holistic health, while also supporting stronger team bonds through group activities.

6. Support Healthy Sleep and Rest

Sleep deprivation is a major factor in workplace stress and reduced productivity. Encouraging employees to prioritise rest, maintain boundaries around working hours, and switch off from work communications outside of office hours is crucial. Steve Jones says, “Sleep is often undervalued in the workplace, but it’s essential for both mental health and performance. Leaders should model healthy rest habits as well.” Organisations can support this by promoting flexible start times, encouraging short breaks throughout the day, and providing quiet spaces for relaxation if needed. Healthy sleep habits lead to better concentration, reduced errors, and improved decision-making.

7. Offer Access to Professional Support

Employees need clear, accessible routes to professional support. This might include Employee Assistance Programs, counselling services, wellbeing apps, or internal mental health champions. Steve Jones stresses, “Having professional support available shows staff they are genuinely valued. It reduces anxiety and can prevent problems escalating.” Organisations should ensure staff know how to access these services confidentially and without stigma. Regular reminders, workshops, and clear signposting increase uptake and demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee wellbeing. Providing these resources can help prevent long-term absenteeism and support a healthier, more resilient workforce.

8. Recognise and Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledging both personal and team achievements fosters a sense of value and belonging. Recognition can range from informal thankyous to structured awards or milestone celebrations. Steve Jones highlights, “Celebrating success isn’t just morale-boosting, it reinforces positive behaviour and encourages engagement. People want to feel that their work matters.” Regular recognition helps maintain motivation, strengthens team cohesion, and reduces feelings of burnout or underappreciation. Small gestures, such as highlighting successes in newsletters or team meetings, can have a significant positive impact on overall workplace culture.

9. Create a Calm, Positive Environment

The physical workplace significantly affects employee wellbeing. Simple changes like decluttering, adding greenery, improving lighting, and creating quiet spaces can reduce stress and improve focus. Steve Jones notes, “Your environment shapes your mood and productivity. Creating spaces that feel calming and supportive is an often-overlooked aspect of wellbeing.” Providing areas where staff can relax, reflect, or recharge contributes to resilience and reduces tension. When employees move through a space designed for wellbeing, it reinforces the organisation’s commitment to their mental and physical health.

10. Regularly Review Wellbeing Initiatives

Workplace wellbeing is not static. Initiatives should be continuously evaluated to ensure they remain relevant and effective. Steve Jones explains, “It’s vital to ask for feedback, measure engagement, and adjust programs accordingly. What works for one team or time period may need updating later.” Surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one discussions can help identify gaps or areas for improvement. By reviewing initiatives regularly, organisations demonstrate a commitment to evolving employee needs and ensure that resources are effectively supporting staff wellbeing, leading to sustained engagement and productivity.