Hodge has signed the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC), committing the lender to a set of principles aimed at supporting employee wellbeing.

The charter sets out six principles for firms operating in the UK mortgage sector, focusing on improving awareness of mental health issues and encouraging open conversations about wellbeing in the workplace.

These principles include developing mental health awareness among employees through activities and advocacy, encouraging open dialogue around mental health and the support available, and providing working conditions that promote a healthy work/life balance.

Signatories also commit to promoting effective people management with a focus on both physical and mental wellbeing, monitoring employee wellbeing through surveys and engagement with managers, and providing a named contact within the business for mental health support.

RIGHT THING TO DO

Emma Graham, business development director for mortgages at Hodge, said: “Signing the charter is quite simply the right thing for Hodge to do, and I mean that in the best way possible.

“Not because it’s a tick-box exercise but because at Hodge, we’re already walking the walk when it comes to the six principles.

“From our Employee Assistance Programme, regular training and surveys, to our well-trained mental health first aiders throughout the business, Hodge is genuinely committed to ensuring colleagues are given the support they need, when they need it.”

Jason Berry, group sales director at Crystal Specialist Finance and co-founder of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter, added: “It’s fantastic to see Hodge stepping forward as a signatory of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter.

“When a respected lender commits publicly to prioritising wellbeing, it sends a powerful message across the sector – that performance and people go hand in hand.

“Real progress happens when leadership takes responsibility for creating healthier working environments, and this is a meaningful step in that direction.”