Mental health for small workplaces
Small and medium organisations account for 99% of the businesses in the UK. But research shows that, when it comes to mental health, they often fall behind larger organisations.
We know that there are unique challenges, as well as unique opportunities, that come with working in smaller businesses. We’ve put together a collection of resources designed to help.
This toolkit contains everything you need to start making a difference. Below, you’ll find:
- A comprehensive handbook filled with advice and tips for small business owners and the self-employed
- A free, simple and confidential mobile app to encourage your employees to take care of their own wellbeing
- 2 practical tools that you can quickly and easily implement
Resources in this toolkit:
Workplace wellness in small businesses
As part of their campaign, 'It's okay to talk about mental health', The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) have created this guide to help small businesses get started with workplace wellness.
A mental health at work guide for small businesses
This guide has been created in partnership between Mind and the Federation of Small Businesses. It offers practical guidance for employers, including how to recognise signs of poor mental health, have supportive conversations with employees, and implement reasonable adjustments in line with legal obligations
Developing your Employer Action Plan: A Guide for SMEs
This guide from Time to Change Wales (TTCW) in collaboration with Mind Cymru is designed to help SMEs understand and implement the Mental Health at Work Commitment. It includes ideas to meet each standard, things to consider, and advice on how to measure the impact of your actions. (The TTCW programme and the employer pledge ended in March 2025),
Every Mind Matters: Your Mind Plan
Your Mind Plan is part of the Every Mind Matters mental health platform from Public Health England. By answering five simple questions you'll receive an action plan to improve your wellbeing and look after your mental health.
Talking toolkit: preventing work-related stress
Excessive pressure and demands at work can cause stress. HSE's Talking Toolkit helps you to have a series of conversations with workers to identify and help prevent work-related stress.
Guides to wellness action plans
Wellness action plans are an easy way to help support your own mental health at work and that of your team members. Mind has guidance and templates to get you started, for both employees and line managers.
Stress risk assessment
Employers have a legal duty to protect employees from stress at work by doing, and acting on, a risk assessment. This is an easy-to-use template you can use, along with examples from 3 small to medium-sized businesses.
Guide to developing an effective workplace mental wellbeing strategy
A well-written mental health strategy can help provide guidance when people ask for help, highlight areas that might need improvement. This guide can help you get started if you're writing a new strategy from scratch.
FSB membership
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is able to support small organisations with advice, financial expertise and support, and this may be especially useful during this uncertain period.
