Making Space hosts unique networking event on workplace mental health
Published 17 October 2024
This month, Making Space hosted a dynamic and impactful networking event at The Village Hotel, Warrington, offering a fresh approach to workplace mental health. What made this event stand out? Each of the eight expert speakers had only 3 minutes to share their insights!
This innovative format encouraged speakers to present clear, concise, and engaging content, keeping attendees captivated and ensuring key points were well-received. The speakers tackled a wide range of topics, from managing personal mental wellbeing at work to creating healthier environments for employees.
Organised by the Making Space Fundraising Team, the event aimed to build connections, foster conversations, and shine a light on workplace mental health in a creative way. Following on from World Mental Health Day (10 October), the team wanted to continue raising awareness on this crucial issue but with a new twist.
Corporate Fundraising Lead, Natalie Bargery, said:
"At Making Space, we're committed to creating a workplace culture where mental health conversations are open, and support is always accessible. With 15% of UK workers facing mental health challenges and absences on the rise*, it's crucial that we equip employers with the tools to support both their own wellbeing and that of their teams. This event was designed to do just that - providing practical, actionable insights into workplace mental health."
“We would like to thank the speakers and everyone who attended for embracing the spirit of the evening. We even timed our Q&A and asked for both concise questions and answers to keep with the theme. It was a pleasure to bring together a group of inspiring speakers who we hope to work with more in the future. Who knew you could learn so much in 3 minutes?”
The networking event featured an impressive line-up of expert speakers, each providing valuable insights into workplace mental health. Emma Morgan, a Partner at Shoosmiths in Manchester, shared key information on employers' responsibilities and legal protections for employees, including how to navigate difficult conversations about mental health. Heather Arnold from Find Your Calm led mindfulness exercises designed to help reduce workplace stress, while Laura Mort from The Village Hotel offered actionable strategies to support staff wellbeing.
Daryhl Lewis, Psychological Wellbeing Support Worker at Making Space, presented practical approaches to managing stress in the workplace. Other speakers included Neil Lewis, The Empathy Coach, who highlighted the importance of empathy in the workplace; Russell Treasure from Treasure Your Wellbeing CIC, discussing men’s mental health; Marcus Edwards from Not Just Travel, who addressed mental health challenges faced by lone workers; and Carolyn Tipper from C the Solution Executive Coaching, who explored the connections between workplace anxiety and suicide.
Together, these speakers delivered impactful, concise presentations, providing attendees with plenty of food for thought.
The event received fantastic feedback, with guests praising the engaging format and wealth of information packed into the brief talks. Here's what some attendees had to say:
“Fabulous evening. So well-organised, fun, and very informative. What a super event you created. Looking forward to the next one!”
“Loved being part of it! Met some great people and learned a lot about mental health options and how important it is on a personal level.”
“Great event with excellent speakers who did well to deliver so much in just 3 minutes. Lots of food for thought.”
“Really great evening, found it very engaging and thought-provoking. Who knew how much you can learn in 3 minutes!”
Following the success of this event, we’re confident there will be more “3 minutes” sessions to come! To stay updated on future events, follow Making Space on Eventbrite and social media.