Thirty-six new companies have been awarded the IPA People First Promise, which recognises organisations that demonstrate a commitment to fostering positive mental health and wellbeing for staff.
Among the businesses awarded include Acast, Clear Channel UK, Croud, Google, Mail Metro Media, Mobsta, Ozone, Publicis London, Sky Media and Snap.
A total of 103 companies have now been awarded the People First Promise following the launch of the initiative in January.
Successful companies have provided evidence of conducting activities or offering provisions that support mental health. Examples include weekly GP visits to the office, hosting clinics to offer personal finance advice, running reverse mentoring sessions to give junior team members greater share of voice and offering advice on optimising sleep quality.
The People First Promise initiative, launched by IPA president Josh Krichefski, aims to incentivise more care towards mental health by offering a “badge of honour” to companies that assert their duty of care for current employees.
“I am delighted to see that, in less than a year, over 100 companies have become proud badge holders of the IPA People First Promise,” said Krichefski. “Crucially, what these badges represent is the fact that thousands of industry people are being rightfully supported and empowered by their employers to prioritise mental health and wellbeing.
“As I’ve said from the start of my presidency, looking after our people isn’t just the right, moral thing to do. When people feel valued and supported, they’re more motivated, productive and loyal. Plus, it creates a more positive and fulfilling environment for everyone.”
In an piece for The Media Leader in August, Krichefski reiterated his belief that “our people are everything”, writing: “I am where I am today largely because of the truly gifted people I have worked with over the years and I never want our industry to lose that ability to attract, nurture, harness and, of course, keep that talent.
“But it is becoming harder. And that is why People First was an easy choice as my agenda during my tenure as IPA president.”
To showcase a selection of the initiatives instituted by companies that have awarded the People First Promise, the IPA will be hosting a People First Lab Breakfast on 13 February.
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