A recent survey by ACAS has highlighted that over a third of employers have not spoken to their employees about their mental health in the last 12 months. While they also found that 59% of employers had managed to start a conversation on this subject, ACAS chief executive Susan Clews noted that ‘Taking the time to talk openly about mental health is vitally important as it can avoid problems building up and lead to improved morale at work.’

However, not all employers will necessarily feel confident in starting a conversation about mental health – or indeed could well be struggling themselves. If you are in this position, ACAS has a range of resources related to coronavirus and mental health at work that may help. The resources cover:  

• Looking after your mental health
• Supporting your staff's mental health
• Managing mental health at work
• Mental health resources.

ACAS also offer training courses on mental health issues, which again could be useful for employers keen to engage staff on this topic but looking for some guidance to help them start the conversation.