Workforce Wellbeing
Workstream
Towards better workforce wellbeing across the VCFSE sector
This is an emerging workstream at VAS. The vital role that the wellbeing of the VCFSE workforce plays in the extent, quality and sustainability of vital services that the sector provides for people and communities is a theme that we have seen and heard repeated in many areas of VAS’s work.
The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) programme was set up in response to frontline workers highlighting where there were gaps in their knowledge and skills.
Workers taking part in the MHFA programme reported the value of peer support. VAS has re-started a Frontline workers’ network to continue to facilitate this.
In addition, given the content of some of the interactions MHFAiders have, a professionally facilitated and psychologically-safe space for them to explore the difficult scenarios they may have in this role is also called for. This is something the Reflective Support programme was set up to address. This programme took into account the importance of supporting workers in culturally appropriate ways, that is in the best way for the individuals and communities involved. Need to add mention of the Adira project here too.
Reflective Support is just one tool that organisations can use to support their workers’ wellbeing. Depending on whether or not they have prior knowledge and experience of participating in wellbeing support impacts how ready they are to plan and implement something similar in their own organisations. This is where the Better Support Systems programmes focusing, doing the work to build the foundations to integrate wellbeing support into the fabric of the organisation.
Key Information
Learning and evaluation
Visit each project or programme’s page to read what we are learning through this work.
Further information and enquiries
Please contact Natasha Munoz, Head of VCFSE partnerships and opportunities N.Munoz@test.vas.org.uk
Directory
Our directory connects you with a range of services, organisations, and resources that can support your work. Whether you’re looking for payroll services, training, or expert advice, we’ll help guide you to the right contacts and support you need to focus on making a difference in Sheffield’s communities.
VCS Workforce Training
We’re thrilled to be launching a new digital space that brings together both online and face-to-face training, crafted with care from our extensive experience in the voluntary and community sector.