Mental Health Matters: How NQA is Supporting Safer, Healthier Workplaces
14 May 2025
As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds across the UK, NQA reaffirms its commitment to fostering psychological well-being in the workplace. Recognising that mental health is as vital as physical safety, NQA supports businesses in creating environments where employees can thrive both mentally and physically.
At NQA, we recognise the importance of mental health and the role we all play in supporting one another. Since 2001, Mental Health Awareness Week has been led by the Mental Health Foundation, uniting people across the UK in a shared focus on mental wellbeing. This year, it takes place from 12–18 May 2025, and the theme is ‘community’.
We’re taking this opportunity to highlight just how important community is to our mental health. Being part of a positive, supportive environment - whether at work, at home, or beyond, can make a real difference. Strong connections offer us a sense of belonging, safety and purpose, especially during challenging times.
This week, let’s take a moment to appreciate the communities we’re part of—and the one we’re building here at NQA.
Promoting psychological health through ISO 45003
NQA advocates for the adoption of ISO 45003:2021, the first international standard providing guidance on managing psychosocial risks within occupational health and safety management systems. This standard assists organisations in identifying workplace risks such as poor communication, excessive pressure, and negative organisational culture that can adversely affect mental health. By implementing ISO 45003, businesses can proactively address these issues, fostering a supportive work environment.
Integrating mental health into occupational health and safety
To help organisations take a proactive approach to psychological well-being at work, NQA offers ISO 45003 e-learning training. This course supports the integration of mental health considerations into existing occupational health and safety systems, complementing ISO 45001. By raising awareness of psychosocial risks and providing practical guidance, the training enables businesses to build safer, more supportive workplaces for all employees. Learn more about ISO 45003 E-learning contact NQA training here.
Practical steps for a happier community
To support mental health in the workplace, NQA recommends the following actions:
Implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide confidential counselling and support services to help employees manage personal and work-related issues.
Conduct worker awareness training: Educate employees at all levels about psychosocial hazards and the importance of mental health.
Encourage worker engagement: Establish initiatives and schemes that promote active participation and feedback from employees.
Maintain effective communication: Ensure regular and transparent communication channels between management and staff.
Adopt flexible working policies: Offer flexible work arrangements to help employees balance work and personal responsibilities.
Supporting businesses in certification and training
NQA provides comprehensive support to businesses seeking certification in ISO 45001 and ISO 45003. Through audits, training, and consultancy services, NQA assists organisations in implementing effective occupational health and safety management systems that prioritise mental health.
Join the Movement Towards Better Mental Health
This Mental Health Awareness Week, NQA encourages businesses to take proactive steps in supporting their employees' mental wellbeing. By adopting international standards and fostering a culture of openness and support, organisations can create healthier, more productive workplaces.
Take the lead on mental wellbeing
ISO 45003:2021 is the first international standard providing vital guidance on managing psychosocial health and safety risks at work - empower your organisation to protect mental health today.
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We’re taking this opportunity to highlight just how important community is to our mental health. Being part of a positive, supportive environment - whether at work, at home, or beyond, can make a real difference. Strong connections offer us a sense of belonging, safety and purpose, especially during challenging times.
This week, let’s take a moment to appreciate the communities we’re part of—and the one we’re building here at NQA.
Promoting psychological health through ISO 45003
NQA advocates for the adoption of ISO 45003:2021, the first international standard providing guidance on managing psychosocial risks within occupational health and safety management systems. This standard assists organisations in identifying workplace risks such as poor communication, excessive pressure, and negative organisational culture that can adversely affect mental health. By implementing ISO 45003, businesses can proactively address these issues, fostering a supportive work environment.
Integrating mental health into occupational health and safety
To help organisations take a proactive approach to psychological well-being at work, NQA offers ISO 45003 e-learning training. This course supports the integration of mental health considerations into existing occupational health and safety systems, complementing ISO 45001. By raising awareness of psychosocial risks and providing practical guidance, the training enables businesses to build safer, more supportive workplaces for all employees. Learn more about ISO 45003 E-learning contact NQA training here.
Practical steps for a happier community
To support mental health in the workplace, NQA recommends the following actions:
Implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide confidential counselling and support services to help employees manage personal and work-related issues.
Conduct worker awareness training: Educate employees at all levels about psychosocial hazards and the importance of mental health.
Encourage worker engagement: Establish initiatives and schemes that promote active participation and feedback from employees.
Maintain effective communication: Ensure regular and transparent communication channels between management and staff.
Adopt flexible working policies: Offer flexible work arrangements to help employees balance work and personal responsibilities.
Supporting businesses in certification and training
NQA provides comprehensive support to businesses seeking certification in ISO 45001 and ISO 45003. Through audits, training, and consultancy services, NQA assists organisations in implementing effective occupational health and safety management systems that prioritise mental health.
Join the Movement Towards Better Mental Health
This Mental Health Awareness Week, NQA encourages businesses to take proactive steps in supporting their employees' mental wellbeing. By adopting international standards and fostering a culture of openness and support, organisations can create healthier, more productive workplaces.
Take the lead on mental wellbeing
ISO 45003:2021 is the first international standard providing vital guidance on managing psychosocial health and safety risks at work - empower your organisation to protect mental health today.
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