We recently caught up with Sam Goss, Senior HR Generalist at Sitel within Plymouth, on how her and her team took part in Time to Talk day on Thursday 2nd of February. Ultimately Sam’s aim was to make space throughout the day, to start conversations with colleagues about their mental health.
“Talking and listening about mental health has the power to change lives. Each conversation we have contributes to reducing mental health stigma, helping to create supportive communities where we can talk openly.”
Sam found that the day was a massive success. Informing us that it was an enjoyable day for all and she got some great feedback and ideas for things to do in the future! Read more to find out about the outcome of the day…
“My colleagues talked and we listened! We found out some really interesting things about everyone, even spoke to colleagues who we would not usually cross paths with! We found out that a lot of colleagues destress in a variety of ways to help them cope with day to day life.”
“A few people love to spend their time gaming or playing Warhammer after work or on their days off to relax and get creative with all the figurines on the game board. Some others enjoyed dancing, boxing, going to the gym or going for long walks to blow off steam! Being in the sunlight, doing a bit of exercise in their routine, really helped them with their mental health from day to day.
Others loved to cook, including making their favourite pasta and chicken dish! And one even loved building Lego – they have recently made the James Bond Austin Martin Car and is now saving up for the Titanic Lego!”
To help motivate some of these conversations, Sam and her team used the Time To Talk resources, particularly the origami ‘chatterbox’ conversation starter! From this, the resources helped them found out various other interesting facts about their colleagues…
“The conversation starters were really useful as we found out that a lot of colleagues have an interest in video games. One person in particular is a fantasy buff and they enjoy finding filming locations in London! Others enjoyed getting creative with diamond art, tie dying socks as well as learning how to fix watches!
One recommendation from one of my colleagues was Able Futures as it is a helpful contact for anyone to use if they felt that they needed to talk about their mental health and get some support whilst working.”
Great work Sam and the team at Sitel! Having those important conversations around mental health and connecting with others in the workplace really helps to create a better, more supported workplace for all!
Not only does Sitel take part in our Wellbeing Champion Programme, with active Champions supporting their colleagues within the team, but they are also Silver Award achievers in our Wellbeing at Work Awards! Keep up the great work Sitel!
