Meridian Business Support is one of the largest privately owned, multi-sector recruitment companies in the UK. In 2019, we will celebrate 30 successful years in the recruitment industry. Our extensive network of branches provides over 4,000 temporary staff on a weekly basis and places over 900 permanent candidates each year. Employing 230 staff, we fill in excess of 200,000 bookings every year, successfully supplying to over 1,500 companies.
Our branch network covers the major towns and cities in the UK and we have clear and demonstrable expertise in all delivery models, from Ad-Hoc supply to Managed Service solutions at both single and multiple sites. We pride ourselves on being a service-led organisation and offer tailormade specialist recruitment solutions. Our professional service ensures that we retain and grow our healthy client and candidate base, which results in high levels of repeat business. We are fully committed to placing the right candidate in the right job.
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"Just an email to say thank you for all the support and advice you have given me the past weeks. I hadn't previously used an agency in obtaining a job role and in all honesty, was dubious of using one. However, you have completely changed my opinion and I would have no hesitation in recommending you and the service you provide. The teamwork displayed by you and your team has been excellent, the service was timely and responsive. I felt all the support you gave me got me through that interview process and I have you and the team to thank for the success of it!"
"I would thank the Meridian Health team for all of their hard work and effort in helping me find a new job. Throughout the entire application process, the Meridian team put all their effort into ensuring my application was successful. Despite how difficult some of my previous employers where to get a hold of for reference and date checks, they persevered through it until they got a hold of the information they needed. In addition to this any time there was an update in my application status, Meridian ensured I was kept in the loop by emailing me any and all updates with my application. Thanks to the exceptional effort put in by Meridian Health, I am now starting my induction training. I'm so excited to be starting such a rewarding, yet challenging role. If you're looking for work or looking for a career change, I would highly recommend taking the time to contact Meridian Health. As I have no doubt that they will help and support you, in finding and securing your new job."
"Mark was a valuable asset in assisting me to find a new position away from retail. Being typecast before I always found it challenging to get my CV noticed. Thankfully Mark work worked his magic and landed me the perfect 'foot in the door position'! I have now been a sales administrator/office manager for nearly a year now and have gained so much experience within that position. Throughout the whole experience I felt like I was supported and encouraged."
"Overall my experience in finding a job with Meridian was great! I know I already had an idea of the position I wanted when I came to your office, but you sorted out an interview straight away and were really helpful. The contact from you throughout the interview process was fab! Calls before and after the interview made the process feel really personal, so thank you! Even after I'd started the position, you still kept in touch, which I found really thoughtful. Hopefully I won't need Meridian any time soon, however definitely wouldn't hesitate to use you again!"
"I wanted to say thank you for all your help over the last couple of months. From my initial application you have provided a top class service but above all, it’s been a personal service. You took a great amount of time to get to know me, understand my strengths and the direction I wanted my career to go. It soon became apparent that you have a similar relationship with your clients as you were able to talk about their business, their ethos and had a good knowledge about the roles being offered. This was invaluable in preparing for the interviews you secured for me and I felt confident going to the interviews that I was already a good match for the role and the business. Even knowing you had been to the site and could advise where to park and what door to aim for was great as Google maps can only go so far! Thank you again for understanding that a career isn’t always about promotion, but sometimes a sideways step is needed to establish the right direction in the right surroundings and I appreciate how this was communicated to potential employers. I’m really pleased with the role you helped secure for me and I’m excited about the potential for me to develop in what already feels like a comfortable business environment. My new role was advertised with multiple agencies and, despite the same CV and covering letter being sent, you were the only agency who had the necessary knowledge and understanding of both your clients and candidates to put me forward. I have taken great pleasure in replying to the rejection emails from the other agencies saying “the depth & quality” of the other candidates meant I had “been unsuccessful on this occasion!"
"I have been looking to find a suitable position for a few months that met my requirement of the right pay as well as utilising my skills. Debbie was able to place me in a full time job that matched my unique personal and professional requirements. She was extremely supportive in preparation for interview, following up and helping to negotiate terms that were suitable for both me and my employer. Her friendly, personal approach during this process was of great benefit to me and I am very grateful for all the positive guidance she gave me."
"Ged gave me plenty of advice and guidance on how to perform in interview. He prepared me for what the job was/is and what to expect from that sector of employment. He did a fab job of boosting my confidence in my abilities before interview. I received a very personable service that was tailored to my personal skills and style. I felt well looked after and also felt he had the best interest of the client in mind as he was quite constructively critical with me in order to make sure I was the right candidate for the job."
"I just like to thank you for preparing all the various documents for the interview with employer. The briefing was in such detail, which was extremely useful. This is one of the best experiences I had with a recruiter."
"Gerard has been very attentive, encouraging and has boosted my confidence. Talking me through the whole process of applying for the job, the role and the employer. He has kept me updated, even if it was just to let me know he has not received any information. Very easy and smooth, hassle free. I just left everything to Gerard and Jennifer."
"I have been struggling to find a suitable position for about a year that met my requirements of a work-life balance as well as utilising my skills. Shirley was able to place me in a part-time job that matched my unique personal and professional requirements. She was extremely supportive in preparation for the interview, following up and helping to negotiate terms that were suitable for both me and my employer. Her friendly, personal approach during this process was of great benefit to me and I am very grateful for all the positive guidance she gave me."
"I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend Meridian's services to anyone looking for their dream job! "Meridian got in touch with me this month with a perfect job in a perfect location. My recruitment consultant, Ged, has been spectacular, communication has been brilliant and I felt thoroughly prepared for my interview and it went very well indeed. I'm so excited to be joining a company that seems so well matched to my skills and ambitions. It was particularly brilliant to have salary negotiations done on my behalf and I'm extremely happy with the result! I'm very grateful to Meridian and would happily recommend them to anyone."
"This is my first experience of applying for a post through a recruitment company and have found it to be a very good one. I received a very prompt email response to my enquiry followed up by a phone call to discuss my CV. Ged and I had a very thorough discussion about what I was looking for and what would be the ‘right’ post for me as an individual. From start to finish the relationship has been very professional, realistic, open and honest with excellent communication. In particular I felt very well prepared by Ged for the interview process which was very different to my past experiences. The whole process has been smooth and efficient, resulting in securing a great role for myself. I have some experience of working in the recruitment industry and would be very happy to highly recommend Meridian to both candidates and clients alike."
I was contacted by Meridian in March 2015 and offered an interview at SSST NHS FT for a procurement assistant. I have been working In this post for the 18 months. Meridian has matched my skills and experience perfectly as I am enjoying my job and obtained a permanent place at SSST. Meridian is providing a services and support for its employees on the highest level, I never had any payment or holidays queries, all documents and statements I have asked for were provided as a matter of hours. As a matter of fact I have interacted with Meridian on a daily basis as my post at SSSfT includes temporary staff management and employment agencies queries and I must say Meridian services are excellent. I will be recommending Meridian to job seeker and to employers. Laura and Clare once again thank you for everything, it was a pleasure.
I have been contacted by Meridian in March 2015 and offered an interview at SSST NHS FT for a procurement assistant. I have been working In this post for the 18 months. Meridian has matched my skills and experience perfectly as I am enjoying my job and obtained a permanent place at SSST. Meridian is providing a services and support for its employees on the highest level, I never got any payment or holidays queries, all documents and statements I have asked for were provided as a matter of hours. As a matter of fact I have interacted with Meridian on a daily basis as my post at SSST includes temporary staff management and employment agencies queries and I must say Meridian services are excellent. I will be recommending Meridian to job seeker and to employers. Laura and Clare once again thank you for everything, it was a pleasure and as I previously mentioned we will be in touch anyway.
I have been working for Meridian for approximately 3 months now. Meridian is a great agency to work with... They are fast, professional and efficient, also shifts are allocated in a convenient manner. The time sheets are easy to compete and therefore I have received prompt payment for my work. All the staff are very approachable and helpful. Michelle Taylor has been a fantastic support to me. Michelle, helped me through the registration process, I couldn't believe how quickly it took. I also had to report a concern, regarding a patient falling during one of my shifts, I felt reassured and supported from the Meridian team. I feel confident when representing Meridian that I have their full support.
Hi Shirley I wanted to say thank you for all your help over the last couple of months. From my initial application you have provided a top class service but, above all, it’s been a personal service. You took a great amount of time to get to know me, understand my strengths and the direction I wanted my career to go. It soon became apparent that you have a similar relationship with your clients as you were able to talk about their business, their ethos and had a good knowledge about the roles being offered. This was invaluable in preparing for the interviews you secured for me and I felt confident going to the interviews that I was already a good match for the role and the business. Even knowing you had been to the site and could advise where to park and what door to aim for was great as Google maps can only go so far! Thank you again for understanding that a career isn’t always about promotion, but sometimes a sideways step is needed to establish the right direction in the right surroundings and I appreciate how this was communicated to potential employers. I’m really pleased with the role you helped secure for me and I’m excited about the potential for me to develop in what already feels like a comfortable business environment. My new role was advertised with multiple agencies and, despite the same CV and covering letter being sent, you were the only agency who had the necessary knowledge and understanding of both your clients and candidates to put me forward. I have taken great pleasure in replying to the rejection emails from the other agencies saying “the depth & quality” of the other candidates meant I had “been unsuccessful on this occasion”! With best wishes
I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend the Meridian services to anyone looking for their dream job!
I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend the Meridian services to anyone looking for their dream job!
Hi Michelle I absolutely loved my first shift... It was brilliant. Thanks so much for making the recruitment process so easy and quick! I am very happy to be working for Meridian.
I just wanted to send a quick email to say thank you very much for all your help recently, especially with trying to get me in with Landmark. I really appreciate all your hard work and my apologies if I sounded a bit deflated on the phone yesterday. Based on experiences with other recruitment agencies during the last couple of months (mentioning no names!) I can definitely say that the service you provide and your dedication is above and beyond what I have experienced elsewhere and I thank you for that.
Being new to Exeter it was very challenging to find a permanent job. I had just left a very bad workplace and I was lucky enough to have been contacted by the consultants from Meridian. I was greeted by professional, friendly staff who treated me like a person and listened, showing that my needs were important to them. Very quickly a job was matched with my skills and experience, and in walking distance so an interview was set up. I felt that the consultants knew that my confidence was a bit low and I was asked to come in for a talk before my interview. This talk was so kind and caring and gave me the confidence to face an interview. I got the job. I felt the job matched what I was capable of and more. As they mentioned, they had matched me to a lovely working team too. I have now been taken on permanently and cannot thank Meridian enough. Meridian take the time to get to know you. They are easy to communicate with and are very responsive. I cannot thank Karen and Mags enough for their outstanding help in finding me a job that I am happy doing and working with a great team. I have recommended Meridian to everyone I know and if I needed their help again I would not hesitate in visiting them again.
I’m just dropping this quick email to say thank you very much for finding me this job. I love my job, I love people I work with and it’s amazing. For the first time in a long time I feel happy and all this because of you who gave me this fantastic opportunity.
Louise is a the best recruiter I have ever had the pleasure to work with. She is absolutely wonderful. She is honest, professional, extremely hard working, and will go that extra mile to make sure that her client is happy, and making the right decisions. I feel blessed to have met Louise, and would highly recommend her to all my friends and family if ever they are looking for a job. She really is the best.
I came across Meridian purely by chance and what a pleasant surprise! An employment agency that did what it said on the tin... Incredibly professional, honest and open, with a human side. It was a pleasure to be treated as an individual and from the first point of contact Shirley did everything she could to ensure I was listened to and matched with potential suitable employers. To top off my experience I was successful in gaining the first position that I applied for, partly I feel as a result if the careful matching that Meridian/Shirley carried out. Would I recommend Meridian? Yes most definately. Would I use them again? Yes without hesitation.
I am two weeks into my new role and absolutely love this job! I wanted to express my appreciation for all of Imogen’s help. My dream job wouldn’t of been possible without her. Unlike most recruitment agencies, I was really impressed with Imogen’s personal but professional approach and her attention to detail when discussing the role in question. She consistently kept on top of things and kept me informed throughout the whole interview process. Helping and advising me for the first and second interview, always making sure that I was ready. I will continue to promote and recommend Imogen at Meridian Business Support in the future, as I believe she is one Resource Manager amongst a sea of them that truly stands out from the rest!
I have worked for the same company in a senior management position for many years so was totally unprepared for the job market when I re entered it looking for a change in direction. I had no idea where to start in my search and applied for a job advertised with Meridian Business support. From my first conversation with Shirley at Meridian Business Support, I felt confident that she was interested in finding me a career position that would suit me as a person as well as my work skills and ability. She supported me throughout the recruitment process, from helping me improve my CV to ringing me after my first day and after my first week in my new job to see how it was going. Shirley instinctively knew that I was the right person for the role that she put me forward for as she understood her clients needs. I was successful at my first interview and I truly feel that this played a huge part in my success. I am now in my new role, which is a totally new career path for me and I am really enjoying the new challenges and people that I am working with. The personal touch and attention to detail that Shirley and Louise at Meridian Business Support adopt towards recruitment made what I thought would be an ordeal, a positive and supportive experience. I would thoroughly recommend them to any business.
I am happy to say I have accepted a role as Operation Director for a Medical supply company looking after Logistics, supply chain and Customer Service. I would like to say of all the agencies and consultancies I dealt with, you and your colleague were the most human, courteous and charming which made your professionalism all the more outstanding. Sadly not everyone I dealt with had that touch. May I take this opportunity to thank you for your kindness and consideration in looking after me and thank you for all your efforts. Truly they were much appreciated and never taken for granted.
From start to finish Rikin and Meridian were fantastic. Whether it was following up on the many questions I had asked or keeping me updated on the progress/status of my potential new role. It's safe to say that thanks to Meridian and Rikin, I have found my perfect role . Overall I'd say absolutely over the moon with them! And couldn't have asked for a better person to help me through than Rikin.
Just to say a very special thank you for getting me the job I wanted, the service I received from you was one in a million, it’s very rare when you deal with any agency that they stay in touch and take time out of their own spare time to call and give you advice and put you first. I will definitely recommend anyone who is looking for a job in the future to get in touch with you and if there is anyone at Meridian I could speak with to get you the praise you deserve then I'll be glad to do it. I still can’t believe how good the job is that you found me I'm still over the moon, so thanks again Emma and hopefully I will get the chance to deal with you again one day.
I would like to start with a thank you. For you and all of your team. You have been more than helpful in regards of my personal needs and circumstances. I have never experienced treatment like it before. Within a week you had me a job in a place I'd like to spend a lot of time with. I cannot thank Meridian enough. I hope I don't have to deal with being part time again but if I do Meridian will be my first option. Thanks again for the services time and commitment.
Dear Sir, I think the world of the Chester branch. They are very special people. They have always helped me with work, from time to time. Someone of my age (59) work is hard to come by one reason why I look one way Meridian I think you are the best.
Emma has been a total pleasure to deal with. She really cares about what she does. I have never in my career seen someone so dedicated to their work. She was often working long hours around my schedule in order to help me find the right role. Emma is very professional from start to finish. She takes the time to understand the client and candidate ensuring a positive match. She will help you and guide you through the whole recruitment process and answer any questions you may have. I would have no hesitation in recommending her as a recruiter for her work. She is a credit to her industry and her company.
This is just a few words to say how happy I have been with the service I have received whilst with Meridian Business Support with yourself as my consultant. Since joining in early October I have been impressed with the level of professionalism and courtesy shown to me. All the shifts I have been given have included detailed instructions and directions and plenty of notice given, which is not always the case with agency work. I would have no hesitation in working for or recommending yourself or Meridian to others.
I would like to personally thank you for the help you have done with finding me a permanent job. Without you I probably would still be unemployed, sitting at home, pulling my hair out. Also whilst going to look for work at the same time and always walking away with the same answer all the time. You are the only person I know who actually put their faith and trust in me without actually knowing me personally. You risked putting me in there so they could see me for who I really am rather than reading off of paper. Words really cannot explain how thankful I am for helping me and helping me realise I can do it and I can succeed. Since I started this position things have really started to turn around for me and my life just gets better and better everyday due to the fantastic benefits of having a permanent job. I can’t be more thankful to anybody but you. Thank you so, so, so, so much Shirley, you’ve made me the happiest boy ever. P.S.. That drinks offer still stands for when I get paid. Many thanks once again
Thank you for your help in trying to find me a position. Throughout my long search for employment (apart from the temping jobs) Meridian was the only agency that got me any interviews. I felt very disillusioned with my experience with other agencies and am quite tempted to write to them letting them know what I think but I know they wouldn't read it! I would have no hesitation contacting you if I ever find myself looking for work again.
I have found you to be professional, efficient and helpful in dealings with any queries/problems I have had. I get the feeling you put yourself into the shoes of the people you are dealing with and address issues as if they were your own. Good customer service is not as common a skill as people might think. I’m happy to report that my experience of Meridian and especially my dealing with you have been a positive one. My compliments on a job well done, and if you ever need a recommendation (verbal or written) please don’t hesitate to ask.
I have dealt with many recruitment agencies lately, but yours has by far been the most efficient, helpful and competent consultant that I have dealt with. Should I be seeking employment again I wouldn't hesitate to contact Meridian Business Support. It's apparent that the team in Witney are doing a fantastic job, keep up the good work!
I wanted to thank you for putting me forward for the recent job role. I also wanted to let you know how useful the documents about interview techniques and the job interview were, particularly when one has not had to be interviewed for a while. I also wanted to let you know that yours is the first agency I have come across who actually talk to job seekers in a pleasant manner and are helpful, so thanks for that as well.
This is just a few words to say how happy I have been with the service I have received whilst with Meridian Business Support with yourself as my consultant. Since joining in early October I have been impressed with the level of professionalism and courtesy shown to me. All the shifts I have been given have included detailed instructions and directions and plenty of notice given, which is not always the case with agency work. I would have no hesitation in working for or recommending yourself or Meridian to others.
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Latest News
Brexit - Information for EU citizens in the UK
With Brexit fast approaching on the 29th March 2019, we have created a web page to provide our EU candidates with up to date information on Brexit. The information provided is correct as at January 2019. Although there is still uncertainty around Brexit and what this means for EU citizens we will keep this page updated with any changes. Please click here to access the page.
15
Jan
Fitters Wanted in Yeovil!
We're looking to recruit Skilled Mechanical Fitters to support the increased workload in the maintenance, repair and overhaul teams at our prestigious aircraft engineering client based in Yeovil. Immediate starts available, ongoing work. Please click on the links below for more information and to apply: Mechanical Aircraft Fitters - Structural Mechanical Fitters - Aerospace Electrical Aircraft Fitters For more information call 01935 702361 or email francesca.woodsford@agustawestland.com
11
Jan
Christmas Opening Hours
We would like to wish all our clients and candidates a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Our closing times across the holiday period can be found below: 24th December - Closed 25th December - Closed 26th December - Closed 27th December - Open 28th December - Open 29th December - Closed 30 December - Closed 31st December - Open 1st January - Closed 2nd January - Business as usual Please click here to find your nearest branch.
12
Dec
Welcome to Meridian
We are delighted to welcome Neil Duggins to Meridian! Neil joins our Sales Team as Senior Sales Executive. He brings with him a wealth of recruitment & sales experience having started his recruitment career in 2000 as a Consultant, he was promoted to Branch Manager in 2002 and then moved into sales in 2012. For the last two years Neil has been the Sales & Client Services Director for First Personnel Services where he was successful in winning some impressive clients in addition to supporting & developing their key accounts. Neil will be based in the Midlands but his role will have a national remit. To find out more about Neil visit his LinkedIn profile.
04
Dec
Meridian Socks Around the World
When we posted the first photo of the Meridian socks on holiday in Dalyan, Turkey, courtesy of Aaron in Credit Control, back in August, we had no idea how far they would travel! We hoped people would get involved and they certainly did! Who knew Meridian employees were such a bunch of jet-setters! We have had sightings from Berlin to Borneo, Thailand to Tenerife! We even had a worrying moment when we received a photo of a pair of Meridian socks without an owner in the Everglades! Thank you to everyone who got involved! This is by no means the end of the challenge, if you want a pair of socks to take on your travels, just get in touch with marketing@meridianbs.co.uk. Aaron Shaw, Turkey | Jeanette Barrowcliffe, Borneo | Fran Parkes, Singapore | Zara Byrne - Dubai | Adrian Saffery, Thailand | Julianne Leitch, Tenerife | Nuala Slim, Tenerife | Adam Temme, Cyprus | Maderia, Nigel and Sarah Dobinson | Tracey Clay, Florida, Haiti, Mexico | Derek Skelton, Marbella | Pauline Folllows, Berlin | June Anderson, Morrocco
27
Nov
IRP Award 2018
We are delighted to be nominated for Back Office Support Team of the Year at this year's IRP awards, which are taking place on Thursday night, in London. We put our Talent and Organisational team forward for the award because of the excellent work they have done to improve company benefits, increase employee engagement and introducing training courses that have made a significant improvement on the company's bottom line. For ten years, the IRP Awards has been celebrating the best practice and professional excellence of their members. The night brings together hundreds of recruitment professionals to celebrate the best of our industry. Wish us luck - we'll let you know how we get on.
27
Nov
Start Your Job Search Now!
Don’t leave your job search until January like everyone else! Historically, November and December haven’t been the best times to start looking for a new job, however, the jobs marketing is changing and we have lots of opportunities available right now! One thing is for sure there is less competition this time of year, so why not start now and bag the job of your dreams, ready for a January start! Interested? Click here to search our jobs.
16
Nov
National Living Wage Explained
As Living Wage Week rolls around again, our supplier Croner takes a look at what the current National Living Wage is, what it means, and how it is going to change. What is it? First thing’s first, let’s clear up the confusion regarding the difference between the National Minimum Wage, National Living Wage and the ‘real living wage’. The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a small difference. The minimum wage is the smallest amount employers legally have to pay to employees over compulsory school age but under the age of 25, while the National Living Wage is the minimum amount employers legally have to pay employees over the age of 25. The real living wage is a figure calculated by the Living Wage Foundation that values the real cost of living in the UK. Sometimes this term is used interchangeably, which can cause confusion. The main difference? The National Living Wage is a legal requirement, the real living wage is not. What is the current National Living Wage? At the moment the National Living Wage is £7.83. The National Living Wage was first introduced in 2016 at £7.20, which then rose to £7.50 in 2017/2018. What is the future of the National Living Wage? In the recent budget, Phillip Hammond announced that the National Living Wage would be rising to £8.21 next April, which is a 4.9% rise. The risks Following the rise next April, it is crucial you conduct a review of all salaries to make sure all staff are being paid correctly, as it can be easy to slip below the threshold during this period. If you discover any of your staff are being paid incorrectly, resolve the situation immediately before it has chance to develop into a full-blown issue. Why? Well, in the past year there have been numerous instances of ‘naming and shaming’ of employers who are incorrectly paying the national minimum and/or National Living Wage. If that isn’t scary enough, you can also be fined up to 200% of the underpayment. While there may have been some among the culprits who were knowingly underpaying their employees, most cases were a result of simple errors that pushed employees below the threshold. There are a few things to watch out for when considering the National Living Wage, for the most common errors and tips on how to recognise them, see our Infographic on how to Avoid National Minimum Wage Naming & Shaming Paying the living wage Employers have two methods of paying the Living Wage – they can either sign up through the Living Wage Foundation as a Living Wage employer, in which case they become accredited. The employer then has to make certain commitments, and would be removed if they didn’t increase the living wage within the six months. Examples of organisations that have done this are Chelsea and Everton Football Clubs. Alternatively, Employers can just decide to provide the Living Wage voluntarily, but do not commit to doing so via the Living Wage Foundation and so don’t become accredited. The living wage, as announced today, will increase by 3.4% to £10.55 in London and by 2.9% to £9.00an hour across the country Source: Croner
08
Nov
5 tips to safeguard your mental health at work
It was #StressAwarenessDay earlier this week so we wanted to share this article by our friends at Total Jobs with some simple ways to reduce stress and increase happiness. Your mental health can be greatly affected by your daily experience at work. In fact, a recent CIPD survey found that 40% of UK managers noticed an increase in stress-related absences and mental health problems in 2015. Heavy workloads, lengthy commutes and bad relationships at work can quickly add up and damage workers’ mental health. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to safeguard your mental well-being. We teamed up with leading mental health charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness to share some top tips with you. 1. Take breaks We’ve all heard that taking breaks is vital, yet many of us avoid them in order to get those precious extra minutes of work in. But stepping away from your work will actually boost your well-being and productivity, according to Chloe Grass-Orkin, Media Officer at Rethink Mental Illness. “Incorporating regular breaks into your day can help you manage stress levels by enabling you to refocus and get a new perspective when returning to a task. Going outside at lunchtime can help separate yourself and your mind from work. You could also read a book, or listen to music to help make your break more relaxing. For shorter breaks, why not make yourself a drink in the kitchen, and chat to a colleague while you’re there. Building relationships with colleagues is an excellent way to improve well-being.” 2. Leave work on time Work-life balance often seems like an elusive concept that no one actually achieves. However, Chloe explains why it’s worth making the effort: “Creating boundaries between our job and life outside of work can make a big difference to our mental well-being, allowing time to maintain relationships and engage in activities we enjoy. We all have to put in extra e sometimes to meet those urgent deadlines, but this should be the exception not the norm. Extra hours may cause a drop in concentration and ultimately take a toll on your well-being. Chloe suggests that “if you’re a manager, lead by example and encourage a good working culture.” Just before leaving for the day, Emma Mamo, Head of Workplace Well-being at Mind, advises planning your day in advance to stay on top of your workload so you feel less stressed: “At the end of each day, go over your to-do list and write up one for the next day. When your thoughts are down on paper, you’ll find it easier to not think about work in your personal time.” If you do need to work at home to complete an urgent task, Emma suggests “designating a separate area for work and sticking to it, as you’ll find it much easier to close the door on work when you finish for the day.” 3. Get talking In a survey by Time to Change, the anti-stigma campaign run by Rethink Mental Illness and Mind, 60% of employees said they would feel uncomfortable discussing a mental health condition with their employer, according to Chloe. However, she says that “discussing any problems you may be experiencing with your manager can be helpful. There are a number of simple adjustments that can be made, such as moving to a quieter part of the office, working from home sometimes, or travelling in later to avoid the rush hour commute. But if no one knows there is a problem, it can be difficult to find a solution.” Emma agrees: “If you feel like your workload is spiralling out of control, discuss it with your manager or supervisor. If you can’t resolve the problem in this way, you can also talk to colleagues in HR, a trade union representative or other relevant members of staff.” 4. Use your commute to unwind Commuting after a long day at work can be a stressful experience in itself. However, Emma suggests that you can still use this time to relax before you get home. “Use the time on your commute home to wind down from work – read a book or listen to music. Maybe try cycling part of your journey or getting off a stop early to take a shortcut through a park or quiet streets. These little actions can really help you to switch off.” 5. Get moving Chloe describes how making physical activity an integral part of your work days can combat stress: “Research has shown that exercise has a positive impact on our mental health, and it can be easier than you think to fit it into your working day. For example, you could go for a short walk on your lunch break. This has the combined benefits of exercising, clearing your head, and getting some important time away from your computer screen so that you’re more alert and focussed once back at your desk.” Source: Total Jobs About the experts: Chloe Grass-Orkin is a Media Officer at Rethink Mental Illness, a leading UK charity that believes a better life is possible for millions of people affected by mental illness. They directly support almost 60,000 people every year to get through crises, to live independently and to realise they are not alone. You can find more advice on mental health in the workplace here. Emma Mamo is Head of Workplace Well-being at Mind, a leading UK charity working to improve the lives of all people experiencing mental health problems for more than 60 years. Read more of their mental health at work tipshere.
08
Nov
Meridian Highly Commended in the On the Tools Awards
Meridian is delighted to have been highly commended in the Best Recruitment Company category at the On the Tools Awards last night! On The Tools is the largest Online Construction Community in the UK and the On the Tools Awards celebrate and reward construction workers, sub contractors, tools and equipment manufacturers and construction companies from across the UK. The awards ceremony took place at Edgbaston cricket ground in Birmingham and our Built Environment team had a great evening celebrating!
02
Nov
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