ICTU urges action on mental health
by Mark Corcoran
 
The document also urges unions to work with employers to develop mental health policies and create a working environment that respects all workers, including those with mental health difficulties.
The document also urges unions to work with employers to develop mental health policies and create a working environment that respects all workers, including those with mental health difficulties.

Unions affiliated to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) have signed up to six commitments aimed at promoting good mental health and supporting workers who experience mental ill health, including anxiety and depression.

 

The actions include a pledge to challenge discrimination in the workplace, promote equal opportunity in recruitment and promotion, and work with employers to promote good mental health.

 

A new document produced by ICTU’s health and safety committee says mental health is an essential part of personal wellbeing. It cites Mental Health Ireland’s assessment that everyone is likely to experience some type of mental health issue during their lives, with the vast majority making a full recovery.

 

The document also urges unions to work with employers to develop mental health policies and create a working environment that respects all workers, including those with mental health difficulties. It stresses that employees should have the right to disconnect from work, and to not answer any work related emails, calls or messages outside of work hours.

 

It says workers should be supported to perform their jobs successfully following a disclosure of mental health difficulties. And it adds that union representatives should be free to support and assist union members who experience mental health difficulties.

 

The publication sets out detailed actions under each of the six commitments.

 

It also recommends actions aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and wellbeing at work through a range of initiatives including flexible working and campaigns to promote mental health.

 

Read the full document HERE.

 

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