What-Franchise-Issue-20.3

63% OF RESPONDENTS TOA 2024 DELOITTE SURVEY REPORTED SIGNS OF BURNOUT 60% AREWORRIED ABOUTMONEY 24% HAVE RECEIVED A MENTAL HEALTH DIAGNOSIS Addressing these issues early with supportive check-ins and open communication can help build a more engaged and resilient workforce or franchise network. What practical steps can franchises take to improve workplace wellbeing? Franchisors play a pivotal role by setting the right tone and providing resources as well as opportunities for open conversations that prioritise mental wellbeing across the network. They can offer training on stress management, provide access to external support or wellness programmes, and create policies that promote work-life balance. Leading by example is one of the most effective ways to begin. Regular, sincere check-ins and open opportunities to talk often play an essential role. Above all, the most impactful thing a franchise brand can do is to show a consistent, genuine care for the mental wellbeing of its people. How do initiatives like National Franchise WellbeingWeek help? Initiatives like this are really shaking things up for mental health in franchising. They create an open, positive space where people can share ideas, swap tips, and talk openly about what really matters. By putting mental wellbeing in the spotlight, these events help break down old stigmas and inspire everyone to invest in better support and care. More than just a one-time event, they’re sparking ongoing conversations that are making the industry a kinder, healthier place to be. What’s the single most important thing we can do today to create a healthier workplace? Ultimately, it’s about showing your team that their overall wellbeing – both body and mind – really matters.When people are thriving, business performance will naturally follow suit. By leading with compassion and open, honest communication, you can more easily spot and solve challenges early. Prevention and proactivity are always the best approach. Businesses should start treating mental health like physical safety. For example, they can add mental health first aid to their training – perhaps placing a mental health kit next to the usual first aid supplies, ready for when someone feels stressed or overwhelmed. Jen Chapman is founder of Cinder and a Mental Health First Aid Trainer through MHFA England 1 The Health Foundation, Oct 2024, Towards a HealthierWorkforce 2 Statistics from Champion Health: Workplace Health Report 2024; Mind: The Big Mental Health Report 2024; Deloitte: Mental Health and Employers – The Case for Investment, 2024 Higher staff retention rates Lower long-term staffing costs Better morale/ teamwork Increased ability to meet deadlines and maintain workload Lower stress levels and higher resilience Fewer absences and presenteeism Stronger forward- thinking focus, goal orientation Enhanced creative thinking BENEFITS OFMENTAL FITNESS TRAINING To take part in the Cinder survey, go to cinderltd.co.uk/cinder- wellbeing-survey-2025. The survey closes on 30th April 2025 and the results will be published during the first National Franchise Wellbeing Week, powered by Cinder and the British Franchise Association, which runs from 16th June 2025. F U R T H E R I N F O R M A T I O N 38 WHAT FRANCHISE Issue 20.3 Ana lys i s | FEATURE