Manager Training – Driving Wellbeing & Performance at The University of Manchester

Overview

The University of Manchester partnered with We Are Wellbeing to enhance the capability of their managers to better support employee wellbeing, improve communication, and drive performance across teams.

With a large and diverse workforce, the University recognised the critical role that managers play in shaping a positive, supportive, and high-performing workplace culture.

The Challenge

Like many large organisations, the University faced several key challenges:

• Managers lacked confidence in having wellbeing conversations
• Inconsistent understanding of mental health and stress
• Limited awareness of tools, resources, and support pathways
• Increasing pressure on managers to balance performance and people

There was a clear need for a structured, evidence-based training programme that would:

Build confidence
Improve capability
Drive consistent behaviours across teams

The Solution

We delivered our CPD Accredited Manager Training: Wellbeing At Work programme.

Key Features:

• Practical, interactive training sessions
• Real-life scenarios and role-play
• Evidence-based frameworks (HSE Management Standards, stress & burnout models)
• Tools to support effective conversations and early intervention
• Focus on performance through wellbeing

Delivery Format:

• In-person and/or virtual sessions
• Cohort-based learning (up to 16 managers per session)
• Facilitated by experienced wellbeing practitioners

The Results

Using pre- and post-training survey data, we measured the impact of the programme across key capability areas:

Key Improvements:

• Resources: +3.15
• Conversations: +1.95
• Communication: +1.78
• Knowledge: +1.64
• Signs & Symptoms Awareness: +1.63
• Manager Role Confidence: +1.51

What This Means

The results demonstrate:

Managers feel significantly more confident in:

• Supporting team members
• Recognising early signs of stress
• Taking proactive action

Managers are now more equipped to:

• Have meaningful wellbeing conversations
• Address issues early
• Create psychologically safe environments

The biggest improvement in Resources (+3.15) shows:

• Managers left with tools they can actually use
• Training translated into real-world behaviour change

The Impact

• Stronger manager capability and consistency
• Improved employee support and engagement
• A more proactive approach to wellbeing and performance
• Clear alignment between people strategy and organisational goals

Delegate Feedback

“Great course, lots of information and techniques to use. Andy is very engaging and a great trainer. Time flew by during the training.”

“I believe that all Managers in the UoM should attend this course. It should be included as mandatory training available to all managers”

“Subject matter was really engaging on not too overwhelming. Trainer was excellent and didn’t use heavy technical terms. It was extremely relatable and useful for the workplace.”

Why It Works

Our approach goes beyond awareness:

Evidence-based content
Practical tools and frameworks
Behaviour change focus
Measurable outcomes

We don’t just train managers—we enable them to lead through wellbeing.