Yesterday, the government’s Spending Review was filled with big numbers: billions for defence, significant pledges for infrastructure, and investment in AI and energy. But once again, mental health was not mentioned.
For anyone working in mental health support, this is a sadly familiar pattern. The national conversation often focuses on visible, tangible projects — roads, tanks, and labs. But what about people? What about the 1 in 4 adults in the UK who will experience a mental health problem each year? What about the growing number of workers signed off with stress, burnout, anxiety or depression?
It’s hard not to feel disheartened when mental health remains an afterthought. But here’s the good news: while national policymakers may drag their feet, local organisations and businesses do not have to wait. Investing in mental health is one of the most potent and cost-effective decisions any employer can make — and the evidence for that grows stronger every year.
Mental health isn’t just a wellbeing issue. It’s a workplace issue. And an economic one.
Let’s face it: the UK is in the midst of a mental health crisis. Services are stretched to their limits, waiting lists are unacceptably long, and stigma continues to prevent many from seeking the help they need. But we’re also grappling with a crisis in productivity and workforce wellbeing — and the two are undeniably intertwined.
Poor mental health is now one of the leading causes of sickness absence. According to the Health and Safety Executive, mental ill health accounts for over 17 million working days lost every year. Stress, anxiety and depression have become routine reasons for absence — not occasional exceptions.
And it’s not just about people calling in sick. Many come into work despite struggling, unable to focus or perform at their usual level. This is known as presenteeism, and while it’s harder to measure, it costs businesses even more than absenteeism.
The staggering economic toll of poor mental health in the workplace is estimated to exceed £100 billion annually, according to research from Deloitte and other leading bodies. This is a cost that no business can afford to ignore.
But there’s a solution — and it works.
The good news is that we know what makes a difference. When employers take mental health seriously, the organisation feels the benefits.
Studies show that every £1 spent on mental health support in the workplace returns an average of £5 in productivity, performance, and retention. That’s a better return on investment than most marketing campaigns or tech upgrades.
And it doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Some of the most impactful steps are also the simplest:
- Training managers to spot signs of poor mental health and respond confidently
- Normalising conversations about wellbeing in the workplace
- Offering flexible working to help people manage their health without fear of judgement
- Creating a culture of psychological safety, where people feel able to speak up when they are struggling
These are not just nice-to-haves. They are smart, measurable actions that improve performance, loyalty and long-term business sustainability.
The recent Spending Review may have overlooked the critical issue of mental health, but that doesn’t mean you have to. The power to make a difference is still firmly in your hands.Yesterday’s announcements might have shown where the government is betting. However, employers, charities, and local leaders can still choose to lead where Westminster lags.
At Oxfordshire Mind, workplaces have a considerable role in shaping a mentally healthier society. We know from experience that change happens faster when it starts with people—with teams, managers, directors, and business owners who care about their staff and want to build workplaces that work for everyone.
We work with organisations across Oxfordshire and Berkshire, from small charities to large businesses, to improve mental health at work.
Our workplace wellbeing training makes a real difference.
Our Workplace Wellbeing Training is designed to be practical, engaging and impactful. We offer a variety of sessions that help employers and employees build confidence, increase awareness, and take action.
Courses include:
- Mental Health Awareness: for anyone who wants to understand better mental health and how to support colleagues
- Managing Mental Health in the Workplace: for team leaders and managers who want to feel more confident in handling sensitive conversations
- Resilience and Stress Management: exploring tools and Strategies to manage Pressure in healthy ways
- Building a Mentally Healthy Workplace: helping whole teams create a culture that supports daily wellbeing.
All our sessions are grounded in lived experience, tailored to your needs, and delivered by trained professionals who understand the pressures and realities of modern working life.
You can explore what we offer here:
👉 Oxfordshire Mind – Workplace Wellbeing Training
This is about more than business. It’s about people.
When you invest in mental health, you are not just protecting your bottom line. You are telling your staff that they matter. You say that health includes mental health and that work should be safe, supportive, and sustainable.
And perhaps most importantly, you are showing leadership in a moment when it is sorely needed.
The Spending Review may have overlooked mental health. But you don’t have to. The choice to act is still in your hands — and the returns speak for themselves.
Let Oxfordshire Mind help you take that next step.