4. Statement by the Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales: Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:16 pm on 20 May 2020.

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Photo of Jayne Bryant Jayne Bryant Labour 3:16, 20 May 2020

Thank you for your statement, Minister. I'm really pleased that you have mentioned Mental Health Awareness Week. The Intellectual Property Office is one of the largest employers in Newport and has been leading the way on mental health and well-being. Their vision is to be an organisation where mental health issues are widely understood and destigmatised, and where mental health and well-being are promoted. For example, they've started a virtual mindfulness course with Bangor University, a new initiative to contact staff who are new to the office, who live alone or who are first-time homeworkers, and virtual tea points and fitness sessions through desk yoga or group activities from home.

COVID-19 is likely to change how nearly every workplace operates. Social distancing and remote working have both their benefits and their challenges. What discussions has the Minister had with businesses and public sector workplaces on how they can adapt to ensure that the duty of care to their employees' well-being is not forgotten in any workplace setting, no matter how big or small, and how can the Welsh Government help to promote and share the good practice so that everyone has the opportunity to benefit?