News

MEET THE CHAMPION - HANNAH LEWIS

29 OCTOBER 2018 12:50

E.G. Lewis Group are proud to introduce HR & Training Manager, Hannah Lewis as its second Time To Change Champion.

On Wednesday 10^thOctober, the group announced that employees had become Time To Change Champions, this in support of World Mental Health Day.

Time To Change Champions use their experience of mental health problems to change the way people think and act about mental health. Being a champion is a flexible and voluntary commitment. You can do what you have time for, and what you’re comfortable doing.

Hannah sat down with Business Development & Marketing Coordinator, Ben Jenkins to discuss her role as Time To Change Champion:

Why did you want to become a Time To Change Champion?

“Having attended the BITC Mental Health at Work event alongside my personal HR CIPD course, it has become apparent how men don’t like to address or talk about their mental wellbeing, with suicide the highest cause of death within the male population.

“Working within a male orientated industry it is important we change the stigma surrounding mental health and allow employees to feel comfortable to address any issues they have, so we can provide them with the support they require.

According to Men’s Health Forum just over three out of four suicides (76%) are by men and suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under the age of 35.

Has past experiences within the topic of mental health encouraged you to become a Time To Change Champion?

“I have been lucky enough not to have had any personal mental health issues, however dealing with a parent divorce and break-ups has given me an insight into how this can affect the wellbeing of individuals whilst how talking to family and friends helps ease the situation to find solutions.

Finally Hannah, what do you feel you can do to make a difference as a Time To Change Champion?

“I believe I am a good listener and approachable, my personal HR course and relevant events have provided me with the tools required to help make a difference in changing the stigma surrounding mental health and wellbeing within the company.

Break the culture of silence that surrounds mental health and talk to your employer.