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The Power of Community: Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing at Work

16 May 2025 | 1 minute read

Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on how we care for ourselves and each other. Community is the theme for 2025 - a powerful tool for protecting our mental health.

Whether it’s your office community, a book club or a sports team (playing or supporting), communities play a vital role in our day-to-day lives. They offer connection, a sense of belonging and a safety net when things get tough. Simply being around others who share similar interests or experiences helps to normalise how we’re feeling and reminds us that we’re not alone.

At our firm, we’re proud of the many communities that bring our people together. Our Connections groups are a great example. These provide spaces where colleagues come together through shared interests, identities and experiences. These groups not only foster understanding and inclusion, but also act as important sources of support and motivation. We asked members of our Connections groups to share their experiences with community.

And, we’re also lucky to have our Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA), trained colleagues who are part of our workplace community and there to support anyone facing mental health challenges. During Mental Health Awareness Week, our MHFAs shared their personal stories about how being part of a community has positively impacted their wellbeing.

Hear from our communities...

While community on its own may not solve mental health challenges, it offers a vital sense of belonging and support. Over the years since moving to the UK I have built my own community. I found a local church, joined hockey teams, dance groups and social activities where I have made a group of close-knit friends who I now call family. Living far from home and moving through cultural spaces where mental health is rarely discussed can be challenging, but community has made those moments a little more bearable.

Nadine Mashingaidze, HR Business Partner and member of the African and Caribbean Connections

 

Spending time outdoors and appreciating nature isn’t just enjoyable – it’s essential for our wellbeing. As a member of the Climate Connections group, I am able to benefit from being part of a community of people who, like me, really value our natural world. You don’t need to escape to the wilderness (although that is great) to feel the benefits of nature. A lunchtime stroll with colleagues in a city park, tending to an urban garden or cycling to work or the shops can still have a really beneficial impact on your mental wellbeing.

Kym Provan, Partner, Clinical Negligence and members of the Climate Connections group

 

Surfing at The Wave has become a key part of my weekly pre-work routine, a simple but powerful ritual that anchors my week. There’s a small like-minded community of us who show up, rain or shine, to share some waves and a coffee afterwards. That sense of connection, being around people who understand the enjoyment and calm that comes from starting your day with a surf, gives me a real sense of belonging. It is a reminder that even brief moments of community can have a lasting impact on your mental wellbeing.

Daniel Eskins, Trainee Solicitor, Mental Health First Aider

 

 

Back in summer 2019, I decide to join my local Pilates class. I was a little nervous as I had never done Pilates before, however the group, which consists of a range of ages and abilities, and the instructor, were really lovely and welcoming. I have been attending every week since! The class really does feel like a little community. I really look forward to my Tuesday evenings where I can chat to everyone and have a giggle.

Clare Green, Senior People Delivery Advisor, Mental Health First Aider

 

 

 

When I became a parent and found out how hard it is to juggle the new demands with a high-pressure job, it was great to be part of an informal network of parents and carers who met regularly to discuss the challenges and share tips. Simply chatting to others in a similar position was very useful and the social aspect definitely helped me get through the sleep deprivation!

Mark Holloway, Principal Director, Mental Health First Aider

 

 

 

Being part of a community, whether you’re contributing, connecting or simply showing up can enhance your overall mental health.

Find out more about life at Foot Anstey.

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