Wrexham organisation introduces extra ‘Bank Holiday’ to look after “staff health and well-being”

A Wrexham-based organisation marked its first ever ‘Empowerment Day’ last week by introducing a new Bank Holiday for its employees.

In recognition of World Mental Health Day (10 Oct) and as part of its ongoing commitment to staff wellbeing, Empower – Be The Change has decided the third Monday in October will be an additional day’s annual leave for all staff.

The day is an opportunity for employees to invest in their own health & well-being.

Jo Clay, founder and managing director of Empower – Be The Change said: “The team work incredibly hard to support many people achieve their ambitions.

“This is recognised by the growing demand of our courses as we have now successfully empowered over 200 people across North Wales.

“To continue this good work we recognise the importance of looking after our staff health and well-being.

“The empowerment day is one of many initiatives we have created to ensure we have a happy healthy team.”

Last week, ahead of the new Bank Holiday, Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths visited Ty AVOW in Wrexham to meet with Empower’s staff and to discuss the initiative.

She said: “Mental health issues are common, with one in four people being affected at any one time.

“I do believe, however, attitudes are beginning to change towards mental health as more people appear to recognise mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health.”

“Encouraging staff to have an extra day off is a positive initiative which highlights an important issue. Well done to Empower and I hope the staff enjoy their long weekend.”

Earlier this month Empower – Be The Change on were crowned winners of the ‘Employment, Education & Training’ category at the Social Enterprise of the Year Awards.