Restaurant chain Wagamama has donated funding for 4,000 mental health support conversations and pledged to contribute 50,000 employee volunteer hours to help those in need.
Through a partnership with Shout, a free 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone experiencing mental health struggles, Wagamama has made an initial donation of £40,000, which is equivalent to 4,000 text conversations facilitated by Shout volunteers.
In addition, it has made an internal pledge to contribute 50,000 hours of volunteering from its employees to support the service’s work and has committed to assist its goal to recruit and train 1,000 volunteers in 2024.
The employer, which has invested in supporting charities, campaigns and individuals in the mental health space for years in line with its ongoing dedication to inclusive mental health initiatives, has joined forces with Shout in order to make a difference to people who need in-the-moment support, and often have nowhere else to turn.
Wagamama will also host events across the country to guide people though key life transitions and provide support and a safe space on its benches. The events will cover becoming a parent, coming out, beginning life at university, and loneliness and offer expert advice.
Thomas Heier, chief executive officer at Wagamama, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Shout as we aim to make a positive impact on mental health support across the UK. By joining forces with Shout, we look to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges. We hope that with our donation, volunteer recruitment efforts and internal pledge of support, we will positively contribute to the amazing work that Shout already do.”
Wagamama offers its employees financial wellbeing support through Salary Finance, retail, leisure and gym membership discounts, a 50% staff discount, long service awards, a bikes-for-work scheme, and access to confidential support and guidance from accredited councillors 24/7, 365 days of the year.