A series of simple steps are at the centre of South East Water’s strive for its staff to stay mentally well during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The water company has prioritised the wellbeing of its colleagues as it continues to pump water to more than 2.2 million customers across five counties.

Backed by an arsenal of mental health advice, support and information, specially-trained technicians, who are all vital key workers, continue to work in the field to keep taps flowing in homes, businesses and hospitals.

Steps recommended to staff include staying in touch with friends and family via video chat, finding ways to relax and be creative and keeping a strict routine.

Colleagues also have a choice of more than 30 specially-trained mental health first aiders to call upon should they need.

Chris Lunn, Head of Health, Safety and Quality, said:

“As a water company, we are proud to be able to support our communities during these troubling times.

“While much of our focus is on ensuring we can keep taps flowing, we’re also taking as much time as possible to ensure the wellbeing of all of our staff is maintained.

“We have gone through a transformation period with many of our colleagues now working from home, but they still have all of the support they would have if they were based in an office.

“Our field staff are doing a fantastic job to protect our water network and we are doing everything we can to ensure both their mental and physical health are looked after.

“I’m proud that our company has taken such big strides into promoting the importance of mental health and I look forward to continuing what we have started.”

In February and March, the company held several mental health workshops for all of its staff across parts of Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Kent and Sussex as part of crisis planning for both work and home life.

Colleagues were equipped with all the information and vital contacts they might need for any situations and which is now being called on during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Other tips handed out to staff include making a ‘safe place’, taking care with social media, maintaining a healthy diet and taking part in regular exercise.