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Handling tragedy: HR’s role when an employee or their loved one dies

Handling tragedy: HR’s role when an employee or their loved one dies

Death can be an uncomfortable topic for most. But when it touches the workplace coworkers need to know how to react. Easier said than done, especially when there is no HR-led protocol to guide. However, the demand for more grief support in the workplace is growing. Approximately 85% of 1,017 respondents say they want employers to commit to fostering grief-supported environments, according to New York Life Foundation’s 2024 State of Grief Report. And at the same time, the loss triggers a series of sensitive and essential responsibilities that HR needs to take on. From handling administrative tasks to providing support for grieving staff, HR plays a crucial role in navigating the aftermath of an employee’s death. Click here to read…
Dr Neil Thompson
August 13, 2024
What is social prescribing?

What is social prescribing?

Social prescribing, also sometimes known as community referral, is a means of enabling health professionals to refer people to a range of local, non-clinical services. The referrals generally, but not exclusively, come from professionals working in primary care settings, for example, GPs or practice nurses. Recognising that people’s health and wellbeing are determined mostly by a range of social, economic and environmental factors, social prescribing seeks to address people’s needs in a holistic way. It also aims to support individuals to take greater control of their own health. Schemes delivering social prescribing can involve a range of activities that are typically provided by voluntary and community sector organisations. Examples include volunteering, arts activities, group learning, gardening, befriending, cookery, healthy eating…
Dr Neil Thompson
August 13, 2024
Using emotional intelligence and respect to resolve conflict in the workplace: An Executive Coach’s perspective

Using emotional intelligence and respect to resolve conflict in the workplace: An Executive Coach’s perspective

Conflict in the workplace is inevitable. It arises from differences in personalities, work styles and competing interests. However, how these conflicts are managed can significantly impact an organization's culture, employee morale and overall productivity. As an executive coach, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of emotional intelligence and respect in resolving workplace conflicts, strengthening relationships, fostering collaboration and creating a more cohesive work environment. Click here to read more
Dr Neil Thompson
August 13, 2024
Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Start your own book of the month club

Neil Thompson’s Lessons for Living – Start your own book of the month club

When I worked with students on a full-time basis, I would suggest that, once they went out into the big wide world as qualified professionals, they should make sure that they continued to learn and develop. In particular, I would urge them to continue to read about their profession and build up their knowledge base over time. I would suggest to them that they should buy a book every month when they received their salary payment, so that it became an established pattern for them. I have since met several of those ex-students who have told me that they did just that and were glad they did, as it helped them to not only keep learning, but also to retain…
Dr Neil Thompson
July 30, 2024
Ready, set, pretend: Ideas for imaginative play

Ready, set, pretend: Ideas for imaginative play

Just imagine! A few kitchen chairs and clean bedsheets become a fortress deep in the Hundred Acre Wood. One wooden spoon is a microphone, and two more are drumsticks. A stack of old newspapers is a dragon egg of paper mâché waiting to happen. Oh, the possibilities! Play is a part of evolutionary culture and an essential aspect of your child’s health and development. Play can prepare children for the complexity of everyday life, regulates the body’s response to stress, improves overall brain structure, and promotes a healthy drive for goals. Play and learning are inextricably linked as skills are honed in a fun, imaginative way. But exactly what does “imaginative play” mean? What are you supposed to do? Will…
Dr Neil Thompson
July 30, 2024
Safe to speak up? 4 ways to build psychological safety at work

Safe to speak up? 4 ways to build psychological safety at work

Over three-fifths (61%) of employees have resigned from a job due to workplace culture issues, according to the Oak Engage Toxic Workplace Report 2023. To build and maintain high-performing teams, leaders must therefore do their best to create a healthy and positive culture. How can they do this? To mark International Safe Places to Work Day, four experts share their advice on building psychological safety and creating a work environment where everyone can thrive. Click here to read more
Dr Neil Thompson
July 30, 2024