Mental health at work is not experienced equally. While one employee may find their workplace supportive, another may face additional barriers that make it harder to feel well, ask for help or access the support they need.
The Mental Health Foundation’s September 2026 report on employment and mental health inequality highlights just how significant these differences have become. Its research found that 22% of UK workers experienced poor mental health in the latest data, the highest level recorded in its series.
The report also identifies groups experiencing greater disadvantage, including young people, disabled people, those with long-term health conditions and lone parents. Inaccessible or inflexible work, stigma, discrimination and financial insecurity can all contribute to these inequalities.
Read the Mental Health Foundation’s September 2026 report.
For employers, this raises an important question: are workplace wellbeing programmes designed to meet different needs, or are they expecting everyone to seek support in the same way?
Making support more accessible
Creating a more inclusive approach starts with recognising that employees have different circumstances, responsibilities and preferences. Some may need confidential professional counselling, while others may benefit from digital wellbeing resources, self-help tools or guidance on managing stress.
Shoorah can contribute by bringing different routes to wellbeing support together in one accessible platform. Its Employee Assistance Programme offers confidential counselling and advice, alongside digital resources and practical guidance that employees can access when they need them.
However, digital tools and counselling alone cannot remove workplace inequalities. Employers must also consider reasonable adjustments, flexible working where appropriate, fair treatment and the working conditions that affect people’s wellbeing.
The aim is not to provide identical support to everyone. It is to make sure people can find support that is appropriate to their circumstances.
Because an inclusive workplace doesn’t assume everyone needs the same thing. It makes sure everyone has a fair opportunity to feel supported.
