Promoting mental wellbeing at Ashton Manor

We strive as an employer to encourage, support, and empower our team members. As well as offering professional support, we are keen to ensure our staff also receive support for their mental wellbeing. Mental health is an incredibly important topic and something we want to encourage conversation around.

At Ashton Manor Nursing Home, we have recently introduced a ‘mental health check-in board’ for the team. This board asks our team members the question “what do you need today?”. Whether that’s a pep-talk, kindness, a good laugh, or simply a moment to breathe, our team are encouraged to take a note that will hopefully give them the little mood boost they need that day. The board was kindly set up by our team member Priscilla, who did a fantastic job making the board look cheerful and inviting.

Working in the care industry can be emotionally difficult at times, coupled with the personal struggles that we all deal with from time to time. It is important for our staff to feel supported and know that they can come to us if they are struggling with their mental wellbeing. Tools like the mental health board encourage team members to check in on their own mental health and feel comfortable talking about wellbeing.

The Ashton Manor team members have really been appreciating the dose of mental wellbeing that the board provides. Here is what our team have said about the board and what they have gotten from it so far:

“I want to sincerely thank Ashton Manor for this thoughtful idea of creating the “Take What You Need” board. This simple yet powerful gesture brings a sense of hope, positivity, and encouragement to those who really need it, like me. Sometimes, just a few kind words can shift the mood for the better, and this board has reminded us of the importance of kindness and support. It shows genuine care for the well-being of the team. It is inspiring to see how such a meaningful idea can make a real difference. I truly appreciate this unique way to connect with the staff and lift our spirits.”

“I was going through my day feeling down but after picking a quote from our ‘Take what you need’ board it was just in time to remind me not to let my past define me and I felt great moving forward stepping into the better version of myself.”

"Creating the Mental Health Check-In Board started as a way to support my team—but I’ve found myself using it just as much. There’s something powerful about walking past a wall that gently asks, ‘What do you need today?’ and realising I do need something—maybe a moment of patience, a reminder of my strength, some comfort, hope or just a good laugh. The quotes have become little anchors throughout my day. They help me pause, reflect, and reconnect with myself in ways I didn’t expect. It’s not just a tool for others—it’s become part of my own wellbeing practice." "I really liked the ‘Take what you need’ activity. I picked faith, and it reminded me to stay grounded and trust myself. It gave me a sense of reassurance that I really needed at work.” “It’s a powerful visual cue that reminds us that mental health truly matters. It offers staff a simple, approachable way to express how they’re feeling—no need for a big conversation, just a gentle nudge of encouragement. It invites us to pause, reflect, and consider the emotional wellbeing of ourselves and those around us.” “Take what you need board is such a brilliant and impactful idea. I especially loved that the quotes were a random pick from random envelopes —it made it feel a bit like serendipity. The one I picked contained the quote, 'Let go of your fear and step into confidence,' and I was amazed at how perfect it was for what was on my mind - or somewhere hidden in my mind. It is rare to see something so personal and uplifting in the workplace. This thoughtful gesture brought a lot of joy and a special moment of reflection - well, it did to me. So much so that I even kept some of them to look back at. Thank you for making our workplace a little brighter."

“The curated quotes—especially the monthly spotlight—offer language that validates, uplifts, and unites. Whether someone’s feeling overwhelmed, unseen, or just in need of a laugh, the board speaks directly to those quiet needs.” “The use of colour, seasonal themes, and playful design turns wellbeing into something people want to interact with. It’s not just functional—it’s magnetic. Staff are drawn in by the aesthetics and stay for the emotional nourishment.” “By asking “What do you need today?” and offering bite-sized quotes and affirmations, the board makes emotional support feel approachable, non-clinical, and beautifully human. It’s not a lecture—it’s a gentle nudge toward self-awareness.”

click here for more details or to contact Ashton Manor Nursing Home