The State Government is providing small business owners looking to support the mental health and wellbeing of their staff with access to a vital resource.
Supported by the Black Dog Institute and the University of NSW, Mindarma – an online mental health tool – is an education program developed by leading researchers.
Through 10 short interactive sessions accessible on computer, tablet, or smartphone, users learn mindfulness and cognitive techniques for resilience and to manage workplace stressors.
On Sunday 13 February, Small Business Minister Jaala Pulford announced free access to Mindarma is being made available to Victorian small businesses and their employees to help with daily challenges and the uncertainty due to the pandemic.
“We know small businesses continue to face significant challenges due to the pandemic and that may cause concern and uncertainty for their employees,” Ms Pulford said.
“The Mindarma app provides skills and tools that are known to protect mental health and in a simple and convenient way to support staff in these challenging times.
“Small businesses want to look after their staff and we’re backing them by investing in innovative ways to provide mental health and wellbeing supporting.”
Sally Wallace, from Melbourne’s Rome2Rio travel business, recognised her staff needed additional wellbeing support during the pandemic.
Mindarma tailored a program specifically for their 40 staff members, with an emphasis on resilience, practical skills and mindfulness strategies.
“Our priority during the pandemic was to retain all of our staff, which we achieved. Having resources available, like Mindarma, is an important component of our overall employee value proposition alongside other company initiatives to ensure a diverse approach to mental wellbeing and support,” Ms Wallace said.
Victorian small businesses can register for free access to Mindarma until 30 June 2022.
For information on this and other wellbeing resources, visit business.vic.gov.au
