S1 E18: Beyond the payslip: supporting mental wellbeing in payroll

In this episode of ‘Behind the Button’, Sarah MacIntosh, Chief Executive Officer of Mental Health First Aid MHFA England, shares how her personal experiences and career journey have shaped her passion for improving workplace mental health. From financial services to leading a national organisation, Sarah explains why psychological safety is essential for both employee wellbeing and organisational success.

The conversation explores why mental health is everyone's responsibility and how leaders and managers can reduce stigma by encouraging open, honest conversations. Sarah discusses the importance of listening with empathy, recognising the early signs of stress and burnout, and creating cultures where employees feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work.

We also examine the unique pressures faced by pay professionals, where demanding deadlines and high levels of responsibility can impact mental wellbeing. Sarah highlights how Mental Health First Aid training equips people with the confidence to spot the signs of mental ill health, start supportive conversations and guide colleagues towards appropriate help.

This fantastic episode offers practical insights into building psychologically safe workplaces where people feel valued, supported and empowered to perform at their best.

Creating healthier workplaces starts with more than wellbeing initiatives. It begins with making people feel safe, seen and supported.

Links

MHFA England website: https://mhfaengland.org/

MHFA England 'My Whole Self' webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=FQKG3exUCpo&time_continue=11&source_ve_path=MjE0Mjgz&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bing.com%2F&embeds_referring_origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bing.com

CIPP and MHFA England joint article in Professional magazine: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/42025276/50/

CIPP and MHFA England joint blog on 'My Whole Self': https://www.aomhfa.org/your-stories/building-leadership-around-difference-adrian-s-my-whole-self-story/

CIPP and MHFA England joint blog on 'Experiences of ADHD in the pay industries': https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/fast-systems-faster-minds-experiences-of-ADHD-in-the-pay-industries/