Today is all about celebrating the achievements of women, promoting equality, and empowering everyone to reach their full potential.

Key stats that demonstrate the importance of wellbeing amongst women

– 19% of women experience a Common Mental Disorder compared to 12% of men

– Young women are the highest-risk group for mental ill health

– 10% of mothers in the UK have mental health problems at any given time

– 60% of people with phobias or OCD are women

– 75% of people who care for someone with a mental health problem are women

– 1 in 12 women develop alcohol dependence at some point in their lives, compared to 1 in 5 men

Of course, good wellbeing across all four pillars (Physical, Mental, Social and Financial) is equally important across all protected characteristics. Wellbeing should be prioritised both on an individual and societal level for everyone.

However, there is no doubting that some subject matters and topics are simply more relevant to certain demographics. We all experience unique health and wellbeing issues, but opening up these discussions and working together to improve our wellbeing can instigate significant change.

Workshops for women

The challenges faced by women are unique – such as motherhood, the importance of cervical screening, cancers most commonly diagnosed in women (ovarian and breast cancer), PMS / menstruation, sexual health, self-image and more. It’s important to ensure that all women feel comfortable enough in a safe space to discuss these issues.

We Are Wellbeing provides a range of workplace wellbeing services designed to empower all staff and encourage people to take control of their own health and wellbeing.

Part of these services include wellbeing seminars on a range of subject matters, plus 1:1 coaching and wellbeing workshops. Key topics include menopause, women’s health (and men’s health), active ageing and much more.

We also have expertise in training Wellbeing Champions. This group should represent a wide range of employees and both men and women are encouraged to take part. This is important for a number of reasons. Sometimes, individuals prefer to open up and discuss problems with a member of their own sex. Other times, it’s important to raise awareness of important issues across all members of staff. Wellbeing Champions are perfectly placed to spark these discussions.

We’re committed to diversity and equality here at We Are Wellbeing. Two thirds of our Board of Directors are women, as are 50% of our Associate Wellbeing Coaches. We’re also proud to be part of the Romero Group, which prides itself on gender diversity and has a 55%/45% gender split in the workplace. And the best bit? We don’t need to try hard to ensure workplace diversity. The team at We Are Wellbeing are passionate, hardworking and extremely talented individuals entirely on their own merit.

Top ten tips for empowering women in the workplace

1. Celebrate each other’s strengths. The best way to empower your colleagues (and yourself) is to be positive and encouraging

2. Respect each other’s opinion and allow each other space to speak openly

3. Embrace individuality – we’re all different and we’re all unique, regardless of gender

4. Respect safe spaces and keep conversations confidential

5. Pass on your skills and empower one another

6. Develop your own brand and build your reputation. Are you known for being helpful, friendly or empathetic? This will help you be someone people want to work with

7. Be yourself and don’t pre-judge others. Stereotypes can occasionally reflect positive attributes, but you should never judge someone without getting to know them

8. Offer flexibility and support when needed, and actively listen to your colleagues

9. Lead by example – be open about your own vulnerabilities. This will, in turn, inspire others to be more open too

10. Encourage a support network incorporating everyone to create an inclusive and diverse supportive environment

Can We Are Wellbeing help to inspire and empower your employees? Get in touch to find out more.