LOOKING AFTER Yourself & Others

WITH DISRUPTION IN EVERYONE’S LIVES due to coronavirus (COVID-19) it’s important that we all pay attention to our mental health and wellbeing. Research suggests that the pandemic will affect everyone’s mental wellbeing, particularly vulnerable groups such as children.

Beyond the virus itself there is the interruption of the normal routine, being furloughed or being forced into working from home, suddenly spending more time indoors and no longer regularly seeing family and friends.

You may also experience someone close to you, such as a family member, colleague or friend becoming seriously ill or passing away. This can cause feelings of sadness, loss and grief.

EARLIER THIS MONTH we were hit with the sad news that our former colleague Brenda Pithers had passed away following a short illness. Many of our clients and staff will remember Brenda who officially retired as our Thames Valley Account Manager in March 2018. Brenda had been a well-respected member of the operations team for over 10 years, and she will be greatly missed by clients and colleagues alike.

With more than 30 years in the industry there was little Brenda didn’t know about commercial cleaning! She joined WORKPLACE in 2008 through an acquisition of her former company Endless Cleaning. She brought with her a long list of loyal clients and devoted staff.

Operations Director, Martin Wells commented that 'we have all been touched by Brenda’s dedication to her friends and family and the selflessness she showed towards others. The news of her death has shocked so many of us and she will be sorely missed.’

We’ve pulled together some resources to help you support your friends, family and colleagues through this challenging time.

Every Mind Matters provides simple tips and advice to start taking better care of your mental health. If you are still struggling after several weeks and it is affecting your daily life, please contact NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, you should call NHS 111.

You can access free easy ten minute work outs from Public Health England or try other exercise videos at home on the NHS Fitness Studio. Sport England also has tips for keeping active at home.