More than 200 delegates representing around 100 employers from across the region gathered in Leeds to explore the topic of “Workplace Wellbeing Through Uncertainty, Instability and Change”.
Hosted by the Leeds Mindful Employer Network funded by Leeds City Council Public Health and run by Leeds Mind, the local mental health charity, the conference took place at Leeds Beckett University’s Carnegie School of Sport.
Twenty-eight expert speakers covered workshops informed by a steering group of employers throughout the day. Topics included how everyday behaviours and leadership practices shape wellbeing; leading people through organisational change; creating connection across remote and hybrid workforces; financial wellbeing; neurodiversity at work; menopause support at work; addiction recovery; and inclusion at work.
The conference culminated in a panel discussing “What the rise of AI means for wellbeing – now and what comes next”, exploring both the opportunities and challenges facing employers in a rapidly evolving workplace.
Leigh Staunton, Project Lead for the Leeds Mindful Employer Network, commented: “It was uplifting to be able to fill the Carnegie School of Sport with so many people who are passionate about supporting people’s wellbeing at work.
“It’s important for businesses, because it impacts productivity, staff retention, and overall organisational success. But wellbeing at work isn’t only an economic argument – workplace mental health is also crucial for people’s overall wellbeing. Work can be important for recovery, independence, a sense of purpose, community and more. Employers can have a direct impact on everything from everyday wellbeing right through to the lifesaving work of suicide prevention.
“I want to extend a huge thank you to every who made #LMEC26 what it was – steering group members, volunteers, speakers, stallholders, Leeds City Council Public Health, Leeds Mind and everyone who attended on the day.”
Attendees could also visit stalls including Active Leeds, Mindwell, Freedom4Girls, Public Health Resource Centre and Leeds Mind. There were also wellbeing sessions including a walk around campus, arts and crafts, singing and yoga.
Feedback from delegates included:
“Lots of practical, accessible ideas and strategies to take back to work with me.”
“It has been great to network with others and share a breadth of experience.”
“This was probably the most useful conference I have been to as a Manager. I was spoilt for choice with the workshop s which were just the right length and felt totally relevant to the challenges I’m currently experiencing.”
“The event provided practical insight into improving communication, wellbeing awareness, and creating a more supportive culture within the workplace. Hearing real experiences and sharing ideas with other businesses was particularly valuable.”
“The day was worth a day out of work and I learnt a lot from it!”
While the next conference is anticipated to be held in 2028, Leeds Mindful Employer Network regularly hosts free events, bringing together local employers to champion positive mental health at work and share practical approaches that can make a real difference in organisations of all sizes.
The next event is on 8th July 2026, focusing on “Supporting Mental Health at Work: What Actually Works?”. The event will be hosted at Holy Trinity Boar Lane and includes a free lunch and networking opportunity.
