Enterprising Company is 100th Health Charter Signatory

Posted on 27th February, 2007

An Exeter company has become the 100th signatory to the MINDFUL EMPLOYER Charter for Employers who are Positive about Mental Health. Exeter Enterprises Ltd is a wholly owned company of the University of Exeter and offers a range of unique consultancy services. “As an employer, the initiative enables us to tap into expertise, advice and practical support,” said Bob Tarbuck, CEO Exeter Enterprises. “With issues of mental health affecting so many people now, anything employers can do to assist is for the better. It is rewarding to be able to make a real and lasting difference.” Signatories to the Charter are equally split across the private, public and voluntary sectors and include small, medium and large employers. While just over half the signatories are based in the South West - where MINDFUL EMPLOYER began - there are now a significant number in all other parts of the UK. “The fact that Exeter Enterprises is a small business also reflects the broad appeal of MINDFUL EMPLOYER,” said Richard Frost of Devon Partnership NHS Trust who facilitates the initiative. “It’s now recognised nationally as a unique and innovative initiative and has grown dramatically from its small beginnings in Exeter. So for a company called Exeter Enterprises to be the 100th signatory does seem rather apt!” MINDFUL EMPLOYER is led by employers and aimed at increasing awareness of mental health in the workplace and supporting businesses in recruiting and retaining staff. A wide range of employers were and continue to be involved in planning the initiative which gives businesses easier access to information, ongoing practical support, training materials, an online discussion forum, support networks and assistance from other employers. MINDFUL EMPLOYER is facilitated by WorkWAYS, a service run by Devon Partnership NHS Trust, which provides information, guidance and practical support for people whose mental health affects their ability to find or retain employment, training, education or voluntary work. The Charter is a voluntary agreement seeking to support employers in working within the spirit of its positive approach. It is a set of aspirations for employers to work towards and is reviewed two years after signing to enable employers to demonstrate what they have done. Further information www.mindfulemployer.net or www.devonpartnership.nhs.uk For further information contact Sharon Berkhout, Corporate Communications Officer on 01392 208700 or Richard Frost on 01392 208833.