EDAM Group has launched Minding EDAM, a wellbeing initiative to promote better mental health among its employees.

The specialist provider of credit hire and post-accident services says the programme is an “industry-first”.

A calendar of mood lifting events and workshops ensure there is an activity every day. Activities are tailored towards improving mind, body and soul in the workplace and all team members are encouraged to opt in.

Steve Turner, CEO of EDAM Group, said: “The benefits of continual learning and development create an overwhelmingly positive impact, for the individual, for the team and for the business overall. We are delighted to create a permanent place for the programme within the company as we continually work to reinforce our commitment to our people and their wellbeing.”

The sessions include Pilates and lunch-time meditation, cycling, monthly netball and fitness classes, as well as a popular Media Club with increasing membership, Jigsaw Corner, Mindful Colouring area and a ‘Chatty Natter’ conversation table. The company also posts weekly brain-teasers to keep staff on their toes and rewards the winner with a prize.

Minding EDAM was created in response to feedback from the company’s employees after an in-house survey and Best Companies questionnaire.

As a business that sees its staff dealing with motorists at a potentially distressing time, EDAM says the new scheme is crucial to ensure those handling calls are best placed to help customers, as well as themselves, remain calm.

The company has also recruited six dedicated employee volunteers to operate as Mental Health First Aiders in a bid to encourage an open and honest culture across its Head Office and depots, with a focus on the support of its staff. Partnering with local mental health charity; Manchester MIND helped deliver training for those in management positions alongside personal resilience guidance for the entire EDAM team.