Abacus Day Nursery Swansea - Promoting staff mental health and wellbeing

Use of a Wellbeing Wheel with staff is central to our approach – the Wheel focuses on all aspects of life affecting a person’s mental health including their work life. Staff complete it at our regular wellbeing meetings and this leads to opportunities for line managers to discuss any issues contributing to stress that are identified in individual responses. We always let staff know we are here to support whatever their needs may be.

Two way communication with staff is also a key part of our strategy. We use regular staff meetings and a staff WhatsApp group to highlight individual and collective achievements and celebrations such as birthdays and to plan get togethers. During the pandemic, the nursery remained open – staff in the building had regular chats and staff members on furlough had drop-in chats with other staff members.

Our WhatsApp group allows both part-time and full time staff to know what is going on at the nursery, how they fit in and that they are appreciated. It provides everyone with a sense of belonging and we can share information around seeking support if anyone needs it. Involving all staff through this channel has been rewarding as it keeps staff morale up. Our managers also have an open door policy so all members of staff can approach us to discuss any issues they have or challenges they may be going through.

Page last reviewed: 13th March 2025