Directors’ guide to workplace wellbeing Supporting mental health this Awareness Week

With directors playing such a key role in shaping the culture of an organisation, they are uniquely positioned to champion employee wellbeing. In fact, an IoD survey (in collaboration Bupa) found that 93% agreed or strongly agreed that directors should play a role in promoting health and wellbeing within their organisation.

Mental Health Awareness Week is an important reminder to prioritise and promote wellbeing in the workplace, and there are plenty of meaningful steps directors can take to support this focus which can be viewed in the guide below:

By taking these steps, directors can reduce burnout risk, support their teams, and foster a culture that values mental health by making ongoing efforts, not just one-off initiatives.

For directors in high-pressure roles, nurturing their own mental wellbeing is also just as important as supporting the teams they lead. The demands of leadership can be intense and, without proper care, stress and burnout can take a significant toll.

Personal private health insurance can play a key role in this, offering fast and confidential access to mental health professionals, along with tailored support plans designed to meet individual needs – ensuring directors get the support they need, when they need it most.

*As of March 2025, this comparison to other products in the market is based on Bupa’s and Defaqto’s interpretation of the differences between the Bupa’s Bupa By You health insurance and other health insurance products offering mental health cover. The comparison excludes any special offers or promotions which may temporarily alter the cover offered. Cover comparison information is for personal use and guidance only and does not constitute any contractual representation, warranty or obligation by either Bupa or Defaqto about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability of the comparison. Neither party accepts any liability for errors, omissions, direct or consequential loss in relation to this comparison. See PDF How we compare: Individuals (PDF 1.0MB).

**Applies to eligible Institute of Directors members on quotes for new Bupa By You policies, and is not available in conjunction with any other offer (e.g. months free, guided care options). Discount will be reviewed on 22/10/2025 and any changes will apply to renewals and new quotes thereafter. Quotes are valid for 14 days. See full terms and conditions here.

†Families pay 10% less for a joint policy compared to the price of separate policies for each family member. Cover must include at least one adult and one or more children. Children do not have to live at the same address as the main member. This offer applies to the Bupa By You Comprehensive and Treatment and Care health insurance policies. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. See full terms and conditions here.

‡Add more than one child under 20 years old to your policy and you’ll only pay for the eldest child, no matter how many more children you add. Children aged 20 or over cannot receive free cover or count as an ‘eldest child’ for this offer. Cover must include at least two children aged 19 or under. You’ll still receive our 10% family discount if you have free child cover. Children do not have to live at the same address as the main member. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. This offer applies to the Bupa By You Comprehensive and Treatment and Care health insurance policies. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. See full terms and conditions here.

Institute of Directors is an introducer to Insured Health Ltd. Insured Health Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales No: 9886202. Registered office: Saville House, 74-90 Savile Street, Sheffield, S4 7UD. For details about how Insured Health treat your personal information please refer to Insured Health’s privacy policy.

Bupa health insurance is provided by Bupa Insurance Limited. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 3956433. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Arranged and administered by Bupa Insurance Services Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 3829851. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London, EC2R 7HJ.