Management Consulting

Aon faced significant challenges in addressing the mental health of its employees, recognizing the need to create a supportive environment where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. In 2016, Aon initiated a comprehensive mental health strategy aimed at raising awareness, challenging stigma, and fostering open discussions about mental health among its UK colleagues. Key objectives included establishing a colleague-led Mental Health Group, securing support from senior leadership, and creating a network of over 100 volunteer Allies to promote the strategy locally. To implement this strategy effectively, Aon launched several initiatives, including training over 300 line managers in Mental Health Awareness and providing Mindfulness and Resilience training, which saw participation from 800 employees. Additionally, Aon organized Financial Education sessions attended by more than 1,400 colleagues to mitigate the mental health impacts of financial stress. The company also engaged in storytelling through the "This is Me" campaign, where employees shared personal experiences to foster a culture of openness. Aon's most impactful intervention was the deployment of a tailored Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program. This program was designed with specific safeguards for Mental Health First Aiders, including comprehensive training and a support system led by a lead Mental Health First Aider. Initially aiming to train 60 First Aiders, Aon exceeded this goal, now boasting over 113 qualified First Aiders, representing a ratio of 1:53 colleagues. The effectiveness of these initiatives has been recognized, as Aon was shortlisted for the 2019 Occupational Health & Wellbeing Awards, highlighting the company's commitment to enhancing employee mental health and well-being.