Research reveals that mental health training for line managers can significantly improve business outcomes.
- The University of Nottingham study indicates a link between manager training and reduced sick leave.
- Enhanced recruitment and retention rates were observed with proper mental health training for managers.
- Improved customer service is a notable benefit from line managers undergoing mental health training.
- Strategic business value is found in mental health training, prompting calls for further research.
Recent research from the University of Nottingham has highlighted the substantial benefits of implementing mental health training for line managers. Such training initiatives have been linked to significant improvements in various business metrics, including reduced absenteeism due to mental health issues, increased staff retention and recruitment success, as well as better customer service. This comprehensive study, led by Professor Holly Blake and Dr Juliet Hassard, analysed survey data from thousands of companies across England, collected over a three-year period by the Enterprise Research Centre at Warwick Business School.
The core finding of this research is that organisations investing in mental health training for managers can not only contribute to a more supportive work environment but may also experience tangible business benefits. As noted by Professor Blake, the study presents pioneering evidence that training focused on enhancing the mental health literacy of managers is tightly linked to improved business outcomes, thereby bolstering the rationale for such investment.
The analysis revealed that one out of every six employees in the UK encounters mental health challenges, contributing to over £50 billion annually in costs for employers due to decreased productivity and increased sick leave. With 12.7% of all sick days linked to mental health issues, the importance of addressing employee well-being is underscored.
By evaluating anonymous survey responses, the researchers controlled factors such as company age, size, and sector to ensure accuracy. This approach has helped ascertain the strategic value of training initiatives aimed at empowering line managers with the necessary skills to address mental health concerns among their teams.
Dr Juliet Hassard, co-author of the study, emphasises the strategic importance for companies of investing in mental health training. She asserts that improving managers’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in handling mental health issues not only aids in employee well-being but also leads to considerable business advantages. There is a call for continued research to explore various methods for delivering effective mental health training to enhance these outcomes further.
Investing in mental health training for line managers holds proven strategic value for businesses, promoting both employee well-being and business efficiency.
