Summary of talk by Megan Sandler, Slaughter and May

The Thrive Initiative was started at Slaughter and May five years ago. Its aim is to:

• destigmatise conversations about mental wellbeing;
• build awareness of mental illness;
• create a culture of openness on the issue; and
• promote a sense of all round wellbeing both at home and at work.

Initiatives coming out of Thrive include:

• an impactful panel discussion with partners and assistants talking about mental wellbeing and personal challenges;
• regular posts about personal stories (both videos and blogs) of mental wellbeing challenges experienced by individuals;
• more recently, a focus on listening and how to become an active listener;
• regular email bulletins and articles by individuals particularly around certain key dates including World Mental Health Day, Eating Disorder Day and Mental Health Awareness Week;
• internal podcasts on issues including imposter syndrome, postnatal depression and parental mental health which were recorded and took the form of a Q&A session;
• roundtable events with charities involved in the mental wellbeing sector; and
• collaborating with other networks in the firm such as the Family Network and the Diversity Network.

The Initiative has introduced a wealth of resources into the firm:

• 26 first aiders who can help to signpost;
• support from a private health organisation and psychotherapist;
• Employee Assistance Programme;
• partnership with an app that provides tips on how to relax, diet and retaining focus; and
• policies on bereavement and flexible working.

The Committee was originally started as a result of pressure from assistants. It currently has seven partners involved to a varying degree. Its members from a broad section of the workforce including business support. The role of partners on the Committee is to sense check its activities to ensure they are in line with the business. Committee members give talks at recruitment events.

At the end of the day, the firm is a client services firm and people have to work hard to provide a top-quality service. However, the firm will push back on excessive demands.