April marks Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on how we can better support mental wellbeing in the workplace. This year’s theme, #LeadwithLove, encourages organisations and individuals to lead with compassion, empathy, and respect – qualities that can often feel abstract for employers. But what does it truly mean to “lead with love” in the workplace?
For social sector employers, it can mean creating a culture where employees feel genuinely valued and supported. A workplace that prioritises wellbeing, encourages open communication, and acknowledges individual contributions not only sees greater employee satisfaction – it also fosters higher performance, loyalty, and resilience.
In this blog, we explore how you can begin embedding this kind of culture into your organisation and why doing so is not only a moral imperative but a smart business decision too.
Why Employee Support Matters – Now More Than Ever
A culture of stress and burnout is no longer something businesses can afford to ignore. According to a report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), 76% of UK employees have experienced moderate to high levels of stress due to work. The ripple effects include increased absence, reduced productivity, and higher staff turnover – all of which significantly impact business continuity and success.
When employees feel undervalued or unsupported, motivation plummets. But when they feel appreciated, listened to, and empowered, it leads to more engagement, creativity, and stronger performance.
What does it mean to feel valued at work?
Feeling valued goes beyond the occasional ‘thank you’. It involves being:
- Recognised for contributions and efforts
- Trusted with meaningful work
- Listened to and taken seriously
- Included in decision-making processes
- Given opportunities to grow and develop
Incorporating these principles into your culture doesn’t have to be complicated – but it does require intentional effort and leadership buy-in.
Practical ways to create a supportive culture
Below are some practical and actionable ways to help foster a culture of support and appreciation, aligned with this year’s Stress Awareness Month theme.
1. Lead by example
If you want your teams to feel safe, supported, and motivated, it starts at the top. Leaders set the tone for organisational culture. Demonstrating empathy, respect, and kindness in your leadership approach helps others to do the same. It’s about modelling behaviour that creates psychological safety and openness.
2. Prioritise Mental Health and Wellbeing
Investing in mental health support is no longer optional – it’s essential. This could involve:
- Providing access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
- Encouraging regular check-ins and one-to-ones
- Promoting work-life balance with flexible working arrangements
- Training managers to spot signs of stress and take action
These proactive measures show employees that their wellbeing matters.
3. Celebrate contributions and milestones
Small gestures make a big difference. Celebrate achievements, both personal and professional – whether that’s hitting targets, completing training, or just making it through a tough week. Recognition doesn’t always have to be formal; sometimes a handwritten note or shoutout in a team meeting means the most.
4. Create a space to give feedback
Employees should feel comfortable sharing feedback – both positive and constructive – without fear of retribution. Introduce regular engagement surveys, stay interviews, and feedback sessions. Then, most importantly, act on what you hear. This demonstrates that you value their opinions and are committed to making improvements.
If you are interested in learning more about employee engagement surveys, contact us for more information.
5. Invest in Learning and Development
People are more likely to stay in roles where they feel they’re progressing. Providing opportunities for professional growth, training, and mentoring helps employees feel supported in their career journey – and boosts overall business capability.
The Link Between Culture and Performance
A supportive workplace culture directly influences performance. When employees are engaged, they’re more productive, more innovative, and more likely to stay. The return on investment is clear – businesses with strong employee engagement consistently outperform those without.
But perhaps most importantly, organisations that are empathetic, provide recognition, and support – are better equipped to weather change and uncertainty. They create a resilient, loyal workforce that drives long-term success.
Final Thoughts
Creating a workplace where employees feel supported and valued isn’t just good for morale – it’s good for business. As Stress Awareness Month reminds us, the wellbeing of your team deserves attention all year round. And this year’s theme, #LeadwithLove, challenges us all to lead with empathy, intention, and compassion.
If you’d like to find out how to embed these principles into your workplace – while staying compliant with current and future employment law – we’re here to guide you.
Contact us for more support or take a look at our free 1-hour of HR consultancy offer if you want to take the first steps to building a culture where employees feel supported, valued and engaged.
Let’s build cultures where people thrive, not just survive.
