Singapore launches network to foster workplace mental wellbeing

Singapore has taken a significant step towards promoting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace by establishing the Wellbeing Champions Network. This initiative aims to empower employers to cultivate supportive work environments and provide their employees with the necessary resources to thrive.

The network comprises of “wellbeing champions”, management-level individuals tasked with spearheading mental wellbeing initiatives within their organisation. These champions play a crucial role in advocating for supportive policies, curating mental health programmes, and establishing systems for employees seeking professional assistance.

To facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice exchange, the Wellbeing Champions Network provides members with access to a dedicated platform and resources. Additionally, from January 2024 onwards, champions will have the opportunity to participate in training sessions focused on self-care techniques, identifying signs of burnout, and fostering open communication about mental health.

The Wellbeing Champions Network boasts over 50 founding members from organisations that have implemented progressive wellbeing practices, including Dow Chemical Pacific, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), the Institute for Human Resource Professionals, and Jardine Matheson Singapore. 

At the launch of the initiative, Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Education and Manpower of Singapore, emphasised the importance of workplace wellbeing, stating, “According to the World Health Organization, good work and workplace support good mental health for individuals by providing a livelihood, a sense of confidence, purpose and achievement which is needed for humans to thrive, and create an opportunity for positive relationships.”

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As part of the initiative, Gan also announced an expansion of the Tripartite Advisory on Mental Health and Wellbeing at Workplaces. This advisory, launched in 2020, guides employers on better supporting their employees’ mental wellbeing. The expanded measures include the implementation of a peer support system and considerations for hiring individuals with mental health conditions to create more inclusive workplaces, reported The Straits Times.