Dealing with difficult economic conditions and rising energy prices on top of the day-to-day challenges and long hours involved in running a business, many small business owners are experiencing increasing pressures which can in turn impact their mental health and well-being. According to a study by Mental Health UK and iwoca, four in five small business owners report experiencing symptoms of poor mental health.
As part of Oxford Innovation Space’s holistic approach to supporting entrepreneurs and small business leaders within our 32 innovation centres, our in-house business support team has recently completed Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training through Oxfordshire Mind.
Beyond providing strategic help to innovate, grow and scale businesses, we recognise the need to support the mental well-being of the business owners themselves. By completing the MHFA online training course, the team is now better equipped to identify early signs of mental health challenges, provide initial support, and guide individuals towards professional help if necessary. The training further demonstrates our dedication to creating dynamic, supportive and inclusive environments for leaders of SMEs.
Neil Griffin, Business Support Director at Oxford Innovation Space, explains:
"The Mental Health First Aid training has equipped our team with invaluable skills, allowing us to support founders not only with business challenges but also their personal wellbeing. By fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed, we’re helping break down the stigma and empowering business owners to seek the help they need to thrive both personally and professionally."
As a people first business, we are fully committed to supporting the well-being, ambitions and development of our employees, customers and local communities.
Jacqui Stimpson, Business Growth Manager at the Launchpad innovation centre in Essex, comments:
“At Launchpad we are passionate about living and breathing our values. Supporting businesses in an innovation centre is much more than just business advice it is also about making sure that our customers and their employees feel supported with their mental, emotional and physical health to help them build their inner resilience, self-awareness and a growth mindset.”
This latest MHFA training is part of the company’s wider strategy of investing in the personal and professional development of our people, ensuring they are well-equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to offer comprehensive support and respond to the ever evolving needs of entrepreneurs and SMEs.
