Whole-Organisation Change: A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing by Kim Leadbeater MP

Kim Leadbeater MP, is the Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tackling Loneliness and Connected Communities. She spoke at our Mental Health in the Workplace Conference, on Raising the Profile of Wellbeing to Achieve Whole-Organisation Culture Change.

Kim presented “In my work in West Yorkshire, I have always championed a holistic approach to wellbeing. This encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, which I consider the three core pillars of a healthy life. My career has been dedicated to this holistic perspective, which I found both fulfilling and essential.

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However, in 2016, my life changed dramatically when my sister, Jo Cox, the MP for Batley and Spen, was tragically murdered. This event turned my world upside down, challenging everything I thought I knew. In response, I shifted my career focus, joining the Jo Cox Foundation, a charity established in her name. There, I concentrated on community health and well-being, striving to create strong, well-connected communities where everyone feels a sense of identity, and belonging, and can live peacefully side by side.

My journey then took a surprising turn nearly three years ago when I became the MP for Batley and Spen. Despite initial reluctance towards politics, I was persuaded to stand for election, and I now find myself working in Parliament – one of the unhealthiest environments in the country. Here, I struggle to maintain the physical and mental health practices I once advocated, due to the job’s intense stress and long hours, which often keep me away from friends and family.

This personal struggle has only deepened my commitment to improving the nation’s health and well-being. I’ve broadened my focus from individual health to the well-being of entire communities and society at large. Last year, I produced a report titled “Healthy Britain,” which argues for a preventative approach to health. It highlights the financial impracticality of continually treating illness without addressing its root causes.

“Healthy Britain” advocates for a joined-up approach where every government department plays a role in health prevention and early intervention. This includes areas traditionally not associated with health, such as transport, housing, and the Home Office. Furthermore, it calls for collaboration across public, private, and voluntary sectors to foster a healthier nation.

Today’s conference underscores the private sector’s critical role in this endeavour. As Abby mentioned, having a happy and healthy workforce is in everyone’s interest. Economically, it makes sense – healthy employees are more productive and take fewer sick days. Therefore, businesses must actively contribute to their employees’ well-being, ensuring they feel connected and supported.

In Parliament, I chair the All-Party Parliamentary Groups for Sport and Loneliness and Connected Communities. These roles allow me to push for policies that embed physical activity into daily life and address loneliness, both crucial for mental and physical health. Our work, including a recent report with the British Red Cross and the Campaign to End Loneliness, reveals that loneliness significantly impacts mental health and is prevalent among various demographics, including senior managers and ethnic minority groups.

Addressing loneliness in the workplace requires more than just social interactions; it’s about ensuring quality connections. Our report recommends that employers better understand loneliness and create opportunities for meaningful social connections among employees.

Promoting a happy and healthy workforce and society necessitates leadership from the top down and grassroots action from the bottom up. Political leadership in this area has been lacking for too long. We need policies that encourage healthy habits and a collaborative approach involving businesses, public services, and the voluntary sector.

The research is clear and has been for decades. We now need action. By working together across sectors and departments, and with the support of academics and professionals, we can create a healthier, happier Britain.

I’m honoured to contribute to this vital discussion and remain committed to advocating for the holistic health and well-being of all our communities.”