At ASL, we believe that a thriving workplace starts with a healthy, supported team. That’s why this Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on the initiatives and policies we have in place to support the well-being of our staff, not just in May, but all year round.
Our Company-Wide Wellbeing Policy
Wellbeing is not just a buzzword at ASL, it’s a core part of how we operate. Our Wellbeing Policy sets out clear expectations for how the company, management, and our employees can work together to promote a culture of trust, respect, and a healthy work-life balance.
We actively promote a range of health and wellbeing initiatives, including:
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Health assessments, carried out by an external health advisor
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An annual flu vaccine, offered to all team members who aren't eligible already on the NHS
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Clear anti-harassment and anti-bullying procedures, ensuring a respectful workplace for all
We also encourage open communication when challenges arise. Whether it’s workplace stress or a personal concern, we urge employees to speak to their line manager or, if preferred, directly with our HR team. All discussions are handled with the utmost confidentiality and care.
Mental Health First Aiders: Here When It Matters Most
To ensure our employees feel supported and safe, ASL has trained and deployed Mental Health First Aiders across the business. These individuals play a vital role in creating a workplace culture where mental health is acknowledged, supported, and understood.
In 2024, we:
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Provided refresher training for our existing Mental Health First Aiders
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Encouraged managers to take part, helping them better support both their teams and themselves
Mental Health First Aiders are trained to:
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Recognise the signs of mental health issues
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Offer non-judgmental support and a listening ear
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Guide colleagues toward appropriate professional help
Their presence also helps reduce stigma, sending a clear message that it’s okay to talk about mental health and to ask for help.
24/7 Support Through Our Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
We know that sometimes people need support outside of the workplace. That’s why we partner with two trusted Employee Assistance Programmes: MetLife and The Printing Charity.
These services are:
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Free and confidential
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Available 24/7, 365 days a year
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Accessible to employees and their households
Support is available on a wide range of topics, including:
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Emotional wellbeing and mental health
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Work-life challenges
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Legal and financial advice
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Physical health support
Whether our employees are dealing with daily stress, navigating a crisis, or just need someone to talk to, our EAPs are there to help.
Bereavement & Probate Support
Life doesn’t stop at the office door, and we understand that personal challenges, particularly loss, can have a deep emotional impact.
ASL provides Bereavement & Probate Support, giving employees access to qualified professionals who can offer guidance in sensitive and difficult times.
Support includes:
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Dealing with grief and bereavement
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Navigating probate matters (such as registering a death or managing an estate)
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Emotional support when facing a terminal diagnosis, whether personally or for a loved one
This service is available confidentially and is part of our wider commitment to supporting staff through every stage of life.
📢 Mental Health Support – You’re Not Alone
At ASL, we’re proud of the steps we’ve taken to support employee wellbeing, and we’ll continue building on this foundation as part of our ESG strategy. But we also recognise that sometimes, the right help may come from outside the business.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some trusted organisations that offer free, confidential support:
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Mind – Advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem
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Samaritans – 24/7 helpline for emotional distress: call 116 123
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Rethink Mental Illness – Support and advocacy for those severely affected by mental illness
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Shout – Free, 24/7 mental health support via text: text SHOUT to 85258
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The Printing Charity – Industry-specific support for those working in print, paper, publishing, and packaging
Let’s Keep Talking
This Mental Health Awareness Month, and every month, we’re committed to encouraging a workplace where everyone feels heard, supported, and valued.
Let’s continue to break the stigma. Let’s keep the conversation going.