Helping an education provider ensure effective support is in place

NMITE is a new provider of engineering higher education, registered with the Office for Students and validated by the Open University. Students learn through undertaking real-world engineering and technical projects, provided by employers and community groups.

The organisation aims to break the mould in existing higher education provision, through being a disruptive game-changer in every facet of its operations and programmes. Supported by government, industry and the profession the first intake of students will start their studies in March 2021. 

Recruiting and retaining high performing individuals

NMITE are committed to recruiting and retaining high performing individuals and with this, mental health support is critical.  Over the past 12 months, the organisation has seen many changes both inside and outside of the work environment. Knowing that their team has access to the appropriate support has been vital as David Langley, Chief of External Engagement explains.

“At NMITE we positively recognise and embrace diversity and inclusion. In the UK one in four people will suffer a mental health episode in any one year, so it's important to us that our students and staff know they study and work in a supportive, open, non-judgemental environment that helps them through these challenging times. Put simply, it helps make us who we are."

As an organisation, NMITE recognises that everyone is different, and everyone’s needs are different.  For this reason, a number of Mental Health Initiatives are in operation to ensure support is available to anyone that needs it. 

Increasing employee engagement and minimising absence

NMITE joined the Mental Health Productivity Pilot (MHPP) programme as an opportunity to audit their current support packages, and ensure they have additional support when required. Samantha Lewis, HR Director has been leading the organisation’s Mental Health strategy and has found the MHPP programme to be of great benefit, as she explains.

Samantha Lewis, HR Director NMITE

As a result of our mental health initiatives absence has been minimal, employees feel engaged and supported, and the culture within NMITE is seen as caring and positive, which has increased productivity and morale.

Samantha Lewis
Human Resources Director, NMITE

Participating in the programme has given NMITE an opportunity to discuss their current offer and future plans. It has reinforced the fact that their mental health policy and associated initiatives are fit for purpose, add value and are viewed as beneficial by employees. Samantha has already seen a positive impact on the organisation.

“The initial self-assessment was extremely helpful in outlining any gaps and allowed us to focus more specifically in particular areas.  The main advantage of the programme was the introduction of the individual mind map.  Employees have provided very positive feedback on this initiative; it has increased their confidence in understanding mental health and provided suggestions to support their wellbeing.”