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HR advice to support your wellbeing

This page is currently being reviewed and will be updated in due course

More than anything this is a time to be kind to ourselves and others.

As we are moving into a phase where we are learning to live with the virus, many of us are adjusting to another new routine and working pattern. Concern for the wellbeing of our loved ones and ourselves may not have gone away or. you may be feeling anxious about returning to campus. It’s ok to not feel ok and to need support during this time of uncertainty and change.

We have put this Brookes community wellbeing page together to help support you and to guide you to other useful resources. You can find general guidance on Covid-19 on the Public Health England website and also see resources for wellbeing under in the People Directorate Wellbeing webpage.

Coronavirus anxiety workbook

Employee Assistance Programme

Colleagues can access the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), provided by our partner Health Assured, for further support and to complement the University’s existing support provision including Occupational Health.

This service is funded by the University, but provided by an independent provider - Health Assured - who are available 24/7, 365 days a year and can discuss issues related to health or financial concerns, loneliness, difficulties with working from home, or worries about returning to the workplace.

Managers will also be able to refer staff to Health Assured via a management referral with the permission of the individual. Short-term solution-based counselling is also available.

Health Assured is recognised by many equality and diversity organisations including Stonewall and Mental Health at Work, is Disability Confident and a Mindful Employer. It has specific resources available to support BAME colleagues, including addressing microaggressions in the workplace and supporting BAME mental health.

Mental health

The current situation is tough for everybody and it is important that we all do what we can to promote good mental health.  

We have selected a few resources for further help and support. 

If you feel unable to cope please contact Occupational Health, the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), your GP or other health professional as appropriate.

Movement / exercise

We all know exercise is good for us and even if you are not a regular exerciser, know that even small amounts can make a difference and importantly help us to de-stress. Everyone has different abilities, but we can all do something.

Use a regular habit to trigger some exercise, eg do 10 sit ups when you switch on the kettle or dance to your favourite track.

Please consult your GP if you have any concerns regarding your fitness to exercise.

Staying in touch

Nutrition

It is important to maintain a healthy diet at this time to promote good health and support your immune system. See the key immune-supporting nutrients.

It can be too easy to snack on ‘junk food’ when you are at home and especially if we are feeling stressed and anxious. Find some healthy snack ideas but don’t beat yourself up if you can’t resist temptation.

Also see:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness can help us increase awareness and subsequently make more skilful choices in our everyday lives. When we are more present, we are often more aware and less reactive and can make decisions from a stronger, clearer place. Mindfulness helps to reduce stress, enhances focus, increases self-awareness and awareness of others, enables you to communicate more clearly and feel more relaxed and at ease.

Other resources

Relevant University policies and information

Support from People Directorate

Our People Directorate team is here to support you on a confidential case-by-case basis and can provide specific advice and guidance. Please contact your relevant People Directorate strategic partnering team via email and they will get back to you asap.

Support is also available from:

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