Dudley Council has helped to raise more than £1,500 for a mental health charity based in the town as bosses at the authority pledged to continue to “do everything they can” to support staff.

The council played a key role showcasing the work it is doing to help staff stay healthy at the recent national 'Love Your HR' conference, where five per cent from the proceeds of ticket sales went to Dudley Mind. The event was organised by West Midlands Employers and the Local Government Association.

A cheque for £1,600 was presented to Sandra Vaughan, chief executive at the charity, at Dudley Council House this week. Sarah Norman, chief executive of Dudley Council, said:

“Dudley Council were delighted to be asked to support West Midlands Employers and the LGA at their national conference. It was an opportunity to promote what we are doing to help employees look after their wellbeing, as we recognise mental health is one of the most significant issues affecting our workforce. 

“I want to make sure that we do everything we can to support staff with their mental and physical health. In terms of what we do, that includes offering a range of self-help and support as well as one-to-one counselling.

“I want all of our staff to know there is no shame in mental ill health and that we have the support to help staff. It is great to be able to support the charity Dudley Mind, who are trying to do so much to change the existing picture across our local community.”

Sandra Vaughan, chief executive of Mind, added:

“The money raised will make a big difference and be used for our Growing In The Park Project, which uses gardening to improve mental and physical wellbeing.

“The conference was an important reminder that mental health touches us all.”