WELLBEING in business should be a top priority during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to an enterprise partnership.

Cumbria’s Business and Economic Response and Recovery Group is encouraging employers to consider the wellbeing of their staff in the midst of a second coronavirus lockdown.

The group, from Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, reminded businesses about the importance of employee wellbeing on Friday to coincide with Kind Cumbria Day.

Covid-19 is creating bigger challenges for businesses and their workers but firms such as Oxley Group and The Farmer Network are keeping their staff connected in savvy ways, hosting frequent team activities and making sure employees are aware of the wellbeing support available.

Jo Lappin, chair of BERRG, said: “Covid-19’s negative impact on mental wellbeing cannot be underestimated and I am really encouraged by the way in which our businesses are responding to this in a serious and considered way.

“Kind Cumbria Day is a timely reminder to all of us to think about what it means to be a kind and supportive employer.

“Many of our local employers are rethinking their businesses going forward and part of this is about the way that they engage with their workforce, communities and business colleagues.

"We have all learnt a lot about what is important during this pandemic, and supporting each other through difficult times is a critical one.”

Jayne Moorby, marketing manager at Oxley Group, said: “This unprecedented year has been very tough for some people and we’re conscious of the impact that it’s had on wellbeing. At Oxley, we are in regular communication with our team to understand both how they are feeling and what we can do to best support them.

"We are using the five ways to wellbeing model to plan innovative activities that keep us connected and support good mental health and wellbeing.”