This World Mental Health Day, the call to prioritise mental wellbeing in the workplace has never been louder. For the hospitality and events industry, this is not just a moral imperative, it’s an operational necessity, and this year’s theme – Access to services: mental health in catastrophes and emergencies – is particularly relevant.
The latest Taking the Temperature survey from UK charity Hospitality Action revealed that understaffing (57%), excessive workloads (52%) and poor work-life balance (50%) are the three biggest stressors affecting the workforce. These findings come amid mounting media attention on what is being described as hospitality’s ‘mental health crisis’, with reports warning of rising absenteeism, burnout and high staff turnover across the sector.
As the industry continues to navigate the ongoing effects of a volatile economy, recruitment and retention challenges and sustained operational pressures, ensuring access to mental health support has become as essential as health and safety. The good news is that industry leaders are tackling this head on, and we are witnessing a powerful shift from awareness to action as leaders are beginning to reshape the way the sector views mental health and wellbeing to create meaningful change.
Access in action
Mark Lewis, CEO of Hospitality Action, explained: “We’ve seen how instilling a strong sense of community in the workplace supports mental wellbeing. Only when employees feel connected and cared for do they also feel more able to speak up, seek help and support one another.
“That sense of belonging is the foundation of a mindful, balanced workplace, one where open conversations, check-ins and initiatives such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) are normal, not exceptional. Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and heard, because when we look after each other, everyone thrives.”
From conversation to action
For many forward-thinking employers, wellbeing has moved from concept to practice. At Foxhills Club & Resort, Majid Fadra, Group Director of Human Resources, said wellbeing is woven into every part of the organisation’s culture.
“It’s never been more imperative as leaders that we ensure mental health is a year-round focus. The Foxhills Collection Academy includes mental health awareness training, financial wellness resources and a wellbeing calendar. Twenty team members have already qualified as Mental Health First Aiders, with more initiatives in the pipeline to deepen our commitment to team members’ wellbeing.
Building daily access to psychologically safe spaces
At Central Hall Westminster, Head of HR, Nicky Kent, said that access to wellbeing is rooted in empowerment and begins with inclusion. “Creating an inclusive and welcoming environment starts with involving everyone. Our staff-led Focus Groups cover themes like wellbeing, sustainability and growth, giving colleagues a voice in shaping our strategy. It’s about building a culture where everyone feels seen, heard and empowered.”
Similarly, at The National Gallery, Helena Fitzgerald, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager, believes access to wellbeing should be simple, flexible and human.
“Our recent survey showed that 43% of respondents believe mindfulness enhances their work, so we’ve introduced small but powerful ways to help people feel connected, from tea and chat breaks to lunchtime walks and yoga after hours. Empowering teams to lead on what they need creates a greater sense of inclusion and personal value.”
For Shonali Devereaux, Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association, the message is clear: the time for discussion has passed; now is the time for action.
“Our industry thrives on connection, yet we’re still not doing enough to ensure our people – including leadership – feel psychologically safe and genuinely supported. Talking about resilience is one thing; building a culture that actively prioritises wellbeing is something else entirely. By encouraging open, flexible thinking and simple, consistent steps, we can shape workplaces where everyone feels safe to be themselves.”
Leading by example
Leaders play a crucial role in building a mentally healthy workplace, not just by introducing initiatives, but by modelling the behaviours they hope to inspire. Normalising discussions around stress management and showcasing positive behaviours such as setting boundaries around work-life balance and encouraging honest conversations creates a culture where people feel safe, supported and able to speak openly.
It’s also essential to recognise that choice and flexibility is vital when adopting wellbeing strategies. Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director of The Meetings Show, agrees that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. “Mental health conversations are deeply personal and that’s why it’s crucial to offer varied, thoughtful touchpoints. Over time, this creates an environment where open dialogue is not only possible but welcomed.”
We are already seeing that when leaders set the tone and provide genuine access to wellbeing initiatives, the impact can be transformative. In a world where crises and challenges are inevitable, access to the right support services alongside care, connection and community is what keeps these sectors standing strong. When people feel supported and equipped with the right tools at the right time, they are not only more resilient in times of uncertainty but are better able to perform in their day-to-day work too.
