What types of mental health support are available to businesses?
Businesses can access a wide range of support options, including counselling services, mental health first aiders, Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), helplines, wellbeing workshops and staff training. Some services are provided by external specialists, while others can be managed in-house. In Birmingham, many employers work with local wellbeing providers to deliver confidential one-to-one sessions, team resilience training or crisis support. Support can be offered face to face, by phone or online. What works best depends on the size of your team, the nature of your work and the challenges your staff are facing. A combination of informal support and professional resources often provides the best balance.
How can I find a counsellor or therapist for my staff?
Start by speaking to a local counselling organisation or mental health charity. In Birmingham, groups like Living Well UK or Birmingham Mind connect employers with qualified therapists who understand workplace issues. You can also search national directories like the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) or Counselling Directory, filtering by location and specialism. Look for professionals with experience in workplace wellbeing, stress, anxiety or trauma. Ask about availability, session formats and fees. Some counsellors offer business packages or reduced rates for regular referrals. Make sure any provider is registered, insured and willing to work in line with your workplace policies and values.
What is an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and how does it work?
An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a confidential support service that helps employees deal with personal and work-related problems. It often includes 24/7 helplines, short-term counselling, legal or financial advice, and referral to specialist services. EAPs are offered through a third-party provider and are usually included as part of a workplace wellbeing plan. In Birmingham, many companies use EAPs to give staff easy access to mental health support without going through HR. Staff can self-refer, which encourages early intervention. Costs vary depending on the size of your team, but many providers offer scalable options for smaller businesses. EAPs are easy to set up and highly valued by employees.
Are there free mental health services available for employees?
Yes. The NHS offers free services through local GPs, including counselling, talking therapies and mental health referrals. In Birmingham, staff can also access support through groups like Forward Thinking Birmingham, Samaritans, and Mind. Some charities offer workplace-specific resources, such as downloadable guides, webinars or free helplines. While these services are valuable, they may have waiting lists, so combining them with internal support or private options helps create more timely access. Encourage staff to speak to their GP or use NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT). Providing a list of local resources shows you’re committed to wellbeing, even if your budget is limited.
Should I offer in-person or online support options?
Both have benefits. In-person support feels more personal and can build stronger connections, while online options offer convenience, flexibility and wider access. In Birmingham, many workplaces now offer a hybrid approach, with online counselling or workshops supported by occasional on-site sessions. Online support is ideal for remote workers or shift-based teams, and it’s often easier to book at short notice. In-person sessions may suit those who prefer a more traditional setting or need more complex support. Ask your team what they’d prefer, and try to offer choice where possible. The most important thing is that staff feel comfortable using the service.
How do I know which support service is right for my team?
Start by identifying the needs of your staff. Are people experiencing stress, burnout, low morale or high turnover? Would they prefer something informal, like mental health champions, or formal counselling support? In Birmingham, many businesses use anonymous wellbeing surveys or suggestion boxes to guide decisions. Consider your budget, number of employees and existing support structures. For small teams, a simple check-in process and a referral pathway may be enough. Larger businesses may benefit from structured programmes or external partnerships. Trialling a service and gathering feedback can help you adjust your approach. Involving staff in the process ensures the support you offer is relevant and used.
Can small businesses access mental health support without high costs?
Yes. There are cost-effective options available for small businesses, including free NHS services, local charities, digital tools and group training. In Birmingham, smaller firms often partner with wellbeing coaches, freelance counsellors or workplace consultants who offer flexible, pay-as-you-go packages. You can also appoint a mental health first aider internally, which is a one-off cost and provides ongoing support. Many EAP providers offer scaled pricing based on company size. Offering simple things like regular check-ins, access to self-help resources and space to talk can make a big difference without much expense. The key is starting somewhere — even a small step shows you care.
What should I look for in a workplace wellbeing provider?
Look for providers with experience supporting businesses like yours. They should offer flexible services, clear pricing, and confidentiality for your staff. In Birmingham, reputable providers often offer a mix of support — such as counselling, workshops, drop-in sessions and training. Ask whether they can tailor their approach to your team’s needs. Qualifications and memberships (such as BACP or MHFA England) are important, as is their understanding of your industry. A good provider will work with you to raise awareness, reduce stigma and improve staff confidence. Read reviews, ask for references and have a conversation to make sure their values align with yours.
How do I introduce mental health support to my team?
Start with a clear, supportive message that explains why you’re offering support and how it works. Reassure staff that the service is confidential and available to everyone. In Birmingham, many businesses introduce new services via a team meeting, staff newsletter or internal video. Follow up with posters in break areas, emails or quick check-ins with line managers. Make the service easy to access and highlight that it’s OK to use it — even if someone just wants to talk. Encourage managers to lead by example and be open about wellbeing. Normalising support from the start helps build trust and increases uptake.
