Time to Talk Day is run by Time to Change and takes place each year to raise awareness of the importance of being able to discuss Mental Health issues; whether that be in schools, in the workplace or at home. Talking about Mental Health shouldn’t be scary and there is no right or wrong way to start the discussion. Time to Talk Day therefore aims to get people together in an informal setting to try and start the conversation.

Here at 300 North, we have recently signed the Mindful Employer Charter - for Employers who are Positive about Mental Health. We pledge to increase awareness of Mental Health issues both with our employees and with our clients and we take several steps to help improve wellbeing in the workplace. Employees take part in exercise groups together and lunchtime walks – when the weather is bad this may just be a walk to the kitchen to have time away from our desks! Staff are encouraged to take part in team challenges such as the Leeds Abbey Dash and the Total Warrior races to build relationships whilst building fitness. Flexible working is available to staff to improve work-life balance and reduce everyday stress. We encourage fun and have a sociable team ethic. 300 North strives to provide staff with a safe, positive environment where they are comfortable to discuss issues without any negative impact.

As part of Time to Talk Day, we therefore want to be part of the conversation on Mental Health. We are open to listen to any one who wants to talk and welcome people who would like to reach out. If you would like to find out more information about Time to Talk Day, then please visit the website: www.time-to-change.org.uk/timetotalkday.

We also want to highlight the services available to everyone if they feel they need more support:
SAMARITANS
Telephone: 116 123 (Free 24 hours a day)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: www.samaritans.org
Provides confidential, non-judgmental emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those that could lead to suicide. You can phone, email, write a letter or in most cases talk to someone face to face.

MIND INFOLINE
Telephone: 0300 123 3393
(9am-5pm Monday to Friday)
Email: info@mind.org.uk
Website: www.mind.org.uk/help/advice_lines
Mind provides confidential mental health information services. With support and understanding, Mind enables people to make informed choices. The Infoline gives information on types of mental distress, where to get help, drug treatments, alternative therapies and advocacy. Mind also has a network of nearly 200 local Mind associations providing local services.

ELEFRIENDS
Website: www.elefriends.org.uk
Elefriends is a supportive online community where you can be yourself. Elefriends is run by Mind.

RETHINK MENTAL ILLNESS
ADVICE LINE
Telephone: 0300 5000 927
(9.30am-4pm Monday to Friday)
Email: info@rethink.org
Website: www.rethink.org/about-us/ourmental-health-advice
Provides expert advice and information to people with mental health problems and those who care for them, as well as giving help to health professionals, employers and staff. Rethink also runs ethink services and groups across England and Northern Ireland.

SANELINE
Telephone: 0845 767 8000
(6pm-11pm)
Website: www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/support/helpline
Saneline is a national mental health helpline providing information and support to people with mental health problems and those who support them.

If you’re a carer needing support you can contact all of the above as well as Carers Direct and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers, both of whom are able to provide support and advice on any issues affecting you.

300 NORTH SPECIALISE IN RECRUITING EXPERTS WITHIN FACILITIES MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTION. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.300NORTHRECRUIT.CO.UK OR CALL 0113 336 5161.