Progress to Change is an active member of our Leeds Mindful Employer Network and became a Mindful Employer Charter Signatory in April this year. Leeds Mindful Employer Network Project Lead, Leigh Staunton, caught up with Progress to Change’s Chief Executive Officer, Clare Maguire, to discuss the organisation’s approach to mental health and wellbeing at work.
Firstly, please tell us a bit about Progress to Change.
Progress to Change is a charity that supports individuals involved in the criminal justice system, helping them to rebuild their lives and reduce reoffending. We operate two Approved Premises (APs) in Leeds: Ripon House, which supports women, and Cardigan House, supporting men. Approved Premises provide safe, structured, and supportive environments for people leaving prison as part of their licence conditions. Staffed 24/7, our APs focus on rehabilitation and reintegration by offering key work, close monitoring, and access to vital services such as mental health support, substance misuse programmes, and housing assistance. Our work is trauma-informed, people-focused, and rooted in the belief that lasting change is always possible.
Why is mental health important to you? (as an individual and as an organisation)
I understand good mental health is vital to living a full and stable life. In our work, the toll on staff can be significant due to the complexity of some of our resident group, so as an organisation, we know that supporting staff wellbeing isn’t optional — it’s essential. When our staff are well, they’re better equipped to provide the safe, consistent care our residents need.
Where did Progress to Change start its mental health journey?
The Progress to Change team enjoying their Staff Away Day this year.
We started by listening to staff and recognising the emotional demands of frontline roles. From there, we introduced reflective practice, and built space for open conversations about wellbeing in supervision and team meetings. We have recently run sessions for staff and residents to train as Mental Health First Aiders. We are also very aware that diet and exercise are key to good mental health and have been working closely with Leeds Council, which has helped us engage staff in looking at healthier lifestyle choices. More recently, we have been running mindfulness sessions for staff and booking on-site massages to help staff manage the day-to-day stresses. We continue to look out for new initiatives and ways of supporting staff.
What made the organisation decide to sign the Mindful Employer Charter?
We wanted to demonstrate our commitment to staff wellbeing in a meaningful and visible way. Signing the Charter felt like a natural step — it aligns with our values, and supports our ambition to be a mentally healthy workplace.
What are you most proud of in terms of Progress to Change’s approach to mental health at work?
We’ve created a culture where people feel they can speak openly and honestly about their mental health without fear of judgement. Whether it’s through signposting to our Employee Assistance Programme, working with our mindfulness coach, or just having a quiet conversation with a trusted colleague, we aim to meet people where they are and support them through whatever they’re facing.
What are your priorities for the next 6 months in terms of mental health at work?
We’re embedding all that we have put in place so far; we hope to expand access to mindfulness and resilience training and give managers the tools and confidence to support team members who may be struggling. We want everyone to know that poor mental health doesn’t mean you can’t thrive at work — you just need the right support.
What would you say to other local businesses considering joining the Leeds Mindful Employer Network?
Don’t hesitate—join! The Network gives you access to a wealth of resources, learning opportunities, and shared experiences from organisations facing similar challenges. You don’t need to have it all figured out; what matters is your willingness to start and keep improving.
A big thank you to Clare for contributing to this blog.
Join the Leeds Mindful Employer Network.
Find out about becoming a Mindful Employer Charter Signatory.
