The University of Sunderland has been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education Leadership and Management Award (THELMA) 2016, in the Outstanding Human Resources (HR) Team category.
In its submission the University detailed the work of its HR team to ensure the workforce is in good physical and mental health, enabling staff to thrive and the university to achieve its strategic outcomes by improving institutional performance.
The University of Sunderland’s HR team has led a number of new initiatives.
These have included creating a mental health champions network and introducing a wide support network of trained staff.
A free online tool is also available 24/7 for staff dealing with anxiety, stress or depression and there is an exercise on referral scheme to support the physical wellbeing of employees.
Andrea Walters, Director of Human Resources at the University of Sunderland said: “Since 2014 the university has made a real impact on the lives of its staff, evident through the high levels of staff motivation and engagement.
“Our performance across the organisation has improved and the university has received numerous accolades, alongside its reputation as an employer of choice.
“To be shortlisted for this prestigious national award is a real boost to the team and a tremendous recognition of the consistent efforts made to support the mental and physical health and wellbeing of staff and ultimately improve the overall performance of our workforce.”
In a letter advising the University that its submission had been shortlisted, Editor of Times Higher Education John Gill said: “Congratulations on your success. To be shortlisted for our THELMAs is already a significant achievement.”
The winner of the award will be announced at an event in London on Thursday, June 23.