Book now for upcoming How To training sessions

HR are pleased advise of our final ‘How To’ sessions of 2026. Please see below for dates, details, and links for each of these sessions.

These sessions cover a range of key workplace topics, including menopause awareness, managing stress and mental health, practical tools and support available to managers, and guidance on the application of Special Leave.

Each session is designed to increase knowledge, build confidence in dealing with each area and support both managers and employees.

‘How To’ – Menopause in the Workplace book now!

Date and Time: 21/10/2026 @ 11.00am – 1 hour via Microsoft Teams

We are pleased to invite employees and managers to attend our upcoming Menopause in the Workplace webinar.

This session aims to help increase understanding of menopause and its impact in the workplace. We will explore common symptoms, challenge myths and misconceptions, discuss practical workplace support, and highlight the resources and support available across the Council. The session is open to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or role. Whether you are experiencing menopause yourself, supporting a colleague, friend, or family member, managing a team, or simply want to learn more, we encourage you to join us.

‘How To’ – Manage Stress & Mental Health in the Workplace book now!

Date and Time: 28/10/2026 @ 11am – 1 hour via Microsoft Teams

This ‘How To’ session will provide line managers a clear overview of mental health and stress, including common mental health conditions, symptoms and the difference between pressure and stress. It outlines potential causes of work-related and personal stress, line managers responsibilities, and the impact stress can have on the employees.

The session will highlight relevant HR & Health & Safety guidance and outlines the first steps to take when an employee is experiencing poor mental health or stress or has a related period of sickness absence, providing information on the support available within the Council and external services.

‘How To’ – Tools to Support Stress Management & Mental Health in the Workplace book now!

Date and Time: 04/11/2026 @ 11am – 1 hour

This ‘How To’ session helps line managers understand the role of Occupational Health in the context of Mental Health and Stress related concerns, including when and how to make referrals and what to expect from an Occupational Health appointment.

The sessions also provides and an overview of the Stress Risk Assessment process, highlighting the importance of completing the Assessment accurately and in a timely manner. A demonstration of completing a form will be included. The session also outlines additional support available within the Council, such as the Employee Assistance Programme and relevant HR policies and guidance on Connects, to help managers effectively manage stress in the workplace.

‘How To’ – Special Leave book now!

Date and Time: 12/11/2026 @ 11am – 1 hour via Microsoft Teams

Managers may encounter situations where an employee reports sickness absence due to personal or family related reasons. In some circumstances this may be more appropriately supported through the application of Special Leave rather than sickness absence. This ‘How To’ session will help managers recognise when Special Leave may apply, for example, in cases such as emergencies, bereavement or caring responsibilities. This ‘How To’ session will include:

• An overview of the Council’s Special Leave Scheme and the types of leave available
• How to assess requests in line with the Scheme
• Common scenarios and how to approach them
• Considerations for ensuring a consistent approach across your team
• Provide details on how to apply for and record Special Leave

Published October 05, 2026