To mark Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18th May), we’re reflecting on this year’s theme of community, and the ways we support both our team and those around us. Work is a big part of our lives, and creating a place where people feel safe, valued, and supported is essential for the working environment.

At Bakers, we know that looking after our staff is one of the most valuable things we can do. We’re proud to have maintained our Level 3 Working Well Accreditation for a second year — an external recognition of our commitment to wellbeing, but more importantly, a reflection of how much we care about the people who work here.

Creating a Supportive Workplace Community

We understand that a happy, healthy team is a thriving team. We’ve made it a priority to build a workplace that supports not only the professional but also the personal wellbeing of our staff. Here are some of the ways we do this:

  • On-site Gym: Our fully equipped gym is free to use and available to all staff — helping our team stay physically active and mentally refreshed. Take a look →
  • Free Support Helpline: Our collaboration with The Printing Charity offers staff the option of having practical, emotional, and financial support 365 days a year.
  • Paws in Work: Because sometimes, the best stress relief is a cuddle with a puppy. Our Paws in Work session in helped staff shake off the January blues in the most adorable way possible. Find out more →
  • Apprenticeships and Career Support: We’re dedicated to bringing in new talent and helping them grow. Our apprenticeship programme ensures young people feel supported and develop skills as we close the skills gap in the industry. Read more →
  • Events That Bring Us Together: Whether it’s a quiz night, team challenge, or themed lunch like our recent VE Day celebration, we value time spent together. It’s not just fun — it’s essential for building strong relationships across the company, especially through the different divisions.

What our staff say:

“Having the onsite gym is a real benefit, it keeps me motivated and is great to use before or after work. It helps me thrive both physically and mentally, creating a perfect work-life balance.”

Nathan Chetland-Poole

“Since joining Bakers, I’ve gained confidence in speaking with new people. The apprenticeship has given me a strong first step into the world of work, and the supportive environment here makes a big difference.”

Izelda Lala

“I suggested Paws in Work as an idea for Bakers, most of us love dogs! It made me so happy and was the perfect way to lift everyone’s spirits and ease back into work after the break. No January blues here!”

Hollie Jones

“It’s so rewarding to be part of planning events that bring different divisions and colleagues together. We always have a great laugh, and it really helps build strong bonds across the workplace especially the team challenges.”

Olivia McLaughlin

Supporting Our Local Community

The spirit of community extends far beyond the walls of Baker Labels. We’re proud to support a range of local causes, charities, and initiatives that make a real difference:

  • Headline Sponsor of Brentwood Half Marathon: We have been headlining sponsors of the Brentwood Half Marathon for many years. Every year, we have both runners and event volunteers from Bakers. We’re proud to support this brilliant community event. Read more →
  • Headline Sponsor of Try-a-Tri: We’re helping first-time triathletes challenge themselves to a full day of sport. Sign up and explore more on Try-a-Tri →
  • 21UP Movement: After speaking to Perry Blake from the 21UP Movement, we realised the gap in opportunities and work experience for young people. It has been a great collaboration so far and we cannot wait to do more with them in the future. See more →
  • Charity Giving and Donations: Through regular donations and seasonal support, we contribute to local charities that work hard to support those in need. Explore our recent donations →
This week is a reminder that mental health is everyone’s business and that community, in all its forms, plays a big part in supporting it. Whether it’s a kind word in the corridor, a shared challenge at an event, or simply showing up for each other, it all makes a difference. We’re always learning, always listening, and always trying to do our bit, for each other, and for our community.

Would you like to be part of the team?