Wellbeing and further help
Health and wellbeing is at the heart of Cumberland Council. Wellbeing is always important but in times of change, this can become even more important – it can be an anxious time for all employees, including line managers and trade union representatives who may be affected directly by the change or indirectly by the demands upon them.
We are committed to creating an environment where all employees can thrive and be happy at work and we will work with employees at all levels and with trade union colleagues to keep improving that positive working environment for you.
What you can do to support your wellbeing
In aiming to provide you with a positive and supportive working environment, we provide a number of resources and services that can help you look after your own health and wellbeing.
Get health and wellbeing support
Further help
Checking in with colleagues regularly and looking out for one another is a great way to ensure people are OK.
A useful tip to ask twice
“How are you?” usually elicits a response of “Fine, thank you” or something similar. Ask again, “How are you really?” and you often get a fuller, more honest response which can help to open up a wellbeing conversation.
If a colleague raises a concern or issue with their health or wellbeing, or you suspect there may be a problem, it is good to talk to them about it straight away. This may allow you/them to address the matter before it becomes worse.
If you are a line manager/supervisor, there is help available to support your responsibilities for employee wellbeing. This includes:
- Occupational Health and/or specialist advice
- Counselling
- Trade Unions
- Staff Network Communities
If required, contact your HR Business Partner/HR Provider for further clarification and guidance.
Resources
Referrals to Occupational Health
Talking Therapies Access free confidential NHS support if you are struggling with low mood, stress, anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks. Online self referral. In person, telephone or online support available.
Mental health awareness resources
Our Future Cumberland (OFC) Advocates
Quiet rooms
Quiet Rooms are dedicated to providing a peaceful environment for:
- quiet contemplation
- religious reflection or prayer
- first aid needs
- wellbeing breaks
- any other situation where a quiet, private space is required
Quiet room locations:
- Welfare Room in Allerdale House, Workington
- ground floor redundant kitchen in the Copeland Centre, Whitehaven
- first id room in the Civic Centre, Carlisle
- Bowfell Meeting Room in Parkhouse, Carlisle
- Meeting Room 106 in Cumbria House, Carlisle
There is directional signage in the buildings that indicate the location of the quiet rooms.