Council Launches Employee Wellbeing Charter
Midlothian Council has officially launched a new Employee Wellbeing Charter - a strategic framework designed to enhance support for staff across the organisation.
Commitment
The Charter outlines the Council’s commitment to fostering a healthy mind, healthy body, and healthy workplace, and marks a significant milestone in the council’s long-term workforce strategy.
Strengthening workforce support
Developed in response to feedback from the 2024 staff survey, the Charter sets out clear priorities, goals, and measures of success. It reinforces the Council’s CREST values which define core organisational goals and also celebrates employees. It aligns with the “nurture” pillar of the Workforce Strategy 2024–2034, which focuses on creating a compassionate and supportive working environment.
Resources
The council continues to offer staff a wide range of wellbeing resources, including:
- A free Employee Assistance Programme offering counselling and health advice
- Occupational Health and physiotherapy services
- Access to mental health first aiders and wellbeing training
- An award winning Staff Wellbeing Team
- A wellbeing directory, developed in partnership with the NHS, and Third Sector organisations to help staff access external support services.
October Wellbeing Month
To promote the Charter and to highlight the council’s commitment to staff wellbeing, the council has also designated October as Employee Wellbeing Month. A calendar of activities is currently being delivered throughout the month, offering opportunities for staff to connect and participate in wellbeing-focused events.
Feedback
Feedback from participants will help shape future wellbeing initiatives and ensure the month becomes a valued annual feature.
Wellbeing matters
Cllr Kelly Parry, Midlothian Council Leader said:
“The Employee Wellbeing Charter is a promise to our staff that their wellbeing matters. It brings together our existing supports and sets a clear direction for future initiatives. Looking after our staff’s wellbeing also helps us build a stronger workforce which serves our residents better.”