Members of MD Support Centre's therapy team standing in our centre. The Mindful Employer logo, featuring the words Mindful Employer next to a blue tick, has been superimposed over the image.

Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre signs up to Mindful Employer Charter

By Helen McCarrollOn In Centre Updates, Featured

Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre is proud to announce that it has signed up to the Mindful Employer Charter, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of its staff. Every member of Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre’s dedicated team works tirelessly to improve the lives of people living with muscular dystrophy. This pledge reflects the organisation’s commitment to valuing and supporting its workforce.

Established in 2004, Mindful Employer is a UK wide initiative run by Devon Partnership NHS Trust. Providing employers with easier access to professional Workplace Mental Health training, information and support, the initiative aims to help empower employers to take a lead in supporting the mental wellbeing of their staff.

Mindful Employer Charter part of ongoing commitment to wellbeing

By joining the Mindful Employer Charter, Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre has committed to:

  • Providing non-judgemental and proactive support to staff experiencing mental ill-health.
  • Avoiding assumptions about a person’s ability to work.
  • Taking a positive and enabling approach to all employees and applicants.
  • Supporting line managers in managing mental health at work.
  • Ensuring fair recruitment in line with the Equality Act (2010).
  • Making it clear that no one at Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre will face discrimination because of their mental health.

Zoe Richardson, CEO of Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre, said:

“We are proud to make this commitment to our incredible staff team. Every member of our team plays a vital role in supporting people with muscular dystrophy, and signing the Mindful Employer Charter is one of the ways we ensure they are supported, valued, and able to thrive. By signing the ‘Charter for Employer Positive About Mental Health’, we are publicly committing to our desire to support the mental health of our staff across the organisation. Alongside our Employee Assistance Programme and VODG membership, it reflects our ongoing dedication to the wellbeing and professional development of our staff.”

Becoming a Mindful Employer also helps Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre reflect on and improve its workplace culture, policies, and practices. It encourages open dialogue, reduces stigma, and equips managers to provide timely support. Over time, this approach is expected to strengthen engagement and create a healthier, happier workplace for everyone.

Another tool to support staff wellbeing

Signing the Charter is the latest addition to Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre’s suite of employee welfare initiatives. Alongside membership of an Employee Assistance Programme, which offers practical and wellbeing support, and membership of the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG), which provides professional development opportunities, sector updates, and networking events, it demonstrates the organisation’s ongoing commitment to staff wellbeing and growth. Supporting staff not only benefits the team but also enhances the quality of care and services provided to Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre’s service users.

At Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre, supporting the mental health of all staff is not just a promise, it is a core part of the charity’s values and daily work.