Supporting Mental Health at Avon: Maggie's Journey as a Mental Health Ally

As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds in May, we turn our spotlight on the vital role played by our network of Mental Health Allies (MHA) across our organisation. Maggie Cieslewicz, Financial Accountant and MHA based in our Melksham facility, shares her journey to becoming an Ally and the pivotal support the network offers our colleagues.

"I joined the MHA network when it launched in early 2023. The challenges of mental health became personal during COVID-19. Being far from family and missing daily connections with colleagues weighed heavily on me. Even as we returned to the office, a sense of disconnection lingered.

Becoming an MHA was my way to address the loneliness that can exist even in a bustling environment. It's those small conversations, the reassurance of someone listening, that brighten spirits. As allies, we provide an empathetic ear, listening to work issues, personal matters, or anything someone wants to share. Our goal isn't to 'fix' anyone but to show understanding and support their journey.

To help make us more accessible to our colleagues, we’ve started regular drop-in sessions, providing a space for open conversation and support. Silence is never the answer and we’re here to have an open conversation with. We’re allies for one another too, checking in and supporting each other in our roles.

It’s Mental Health Awareness week here in the UK during May, and to build awareness around mental health and promote the resources available to our colleagues, the Allies are running a series of initiatives that underscore the importance of the pillars of mental wellbeing - nutrition, sleep, exercise, relaxation, and connection.

It’s a privilege to be a part of the MHA network here at Avon and to be there to support my colleagues who may be navigating the complexities of mental health.”