Blenheim marked World Mental Health Day with a series of wellbeing events and activities for staff.
The annual event, which took place on 10th October, is run by the Mental Health Foundation a charity whose mission is to help people understand, protect and sustain their mental health.
As part of the week of activities, Blenheim staff had the chance to meet sheep, horses and sheepdogs at the estate’s Park Farm.
“Petting an animal can lower your blood pressure, help you relax and cuts down on
the levels of stress hormone within your body,” said Megan Carter, Blenheim’s Head of HR.
“We also arranged a series of in person and online events for staff including meditation, mindfulness, walks, stretching exercises and the chance to just sit down and chat over a cup of tea and cake.
“The feedback we have got from staff has been extremely positive and we’re looking to build on this to offer additional help and support for people throughout the year,” she added.
Among those taking part in the activities was Kim Girvan, Palace Host, who spent time with Farm Manager and shepherd Charles Gerring and his team, meeting some of the estate’s resident animals.
“I was fortunate enough to visit Park Farm today with several colleagues. Charles and his team were wonderful and while I must admit I wasn’t feeling particularly mentally unwell, it did my spirits good to participate!
Since 1949, the Mental Health Foundation has been the UK’s leading charity for everyone’s mental health.
According to their own research, being in nature has been one of the most popular ways the public has tried to sustain good mental health at a challenging time.
- To find out more about the Mental Health Foundation’s work visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk .
Issued on behalf of Blenheim. For more information please contact Niamh O’Sullivan at NO’Sullivan@blenheimpalace.com or Samantha Vaughan on 07469 129743 or SVaughan@blenheimpalace.com .