Workplaces are always looking for ways to bring people together, whether through social events, team activities or initiatives that give something back to the community. But what if these activities could achieve something even more meaningful?

Even the simplest fundraising efforts can make a real difference to people experiencing mental health difficulties, helping them access support they might otherwise struggle to afford.

That’s the thinking behind Richmond Foundation’s Healthy Minds Care, an initiative that encourages companies and organisations to get their teams involved, raise funds and contribute to better awareness of mental health services.

For P. Cutajar, supporting mental health was an opportunity to put its commitment to employee wellbeing and community responsibility into practice. Through its partnership with Richmond Foundation last year, the company helped raise awareness of mental health while making a tangible contribution to the services available to people across Malta.

“Community is one of our core values, and last year we were especially proud to support the Foundation in funding over 1,000 therapy sessions for people who otherwise may not have been able to afford them,” explains Francesca Zammit Cutajar, Head of Marketing and Employer Branding at P. Cutajar.

The partnership also extended beyond fundraising, involving well-known local personalities to help spread awareness and encourage more open conversations about mental health. As Francesca explains, it was an opportunity for the team to turn a shared belief into meaningful action and demonstrate just how much organisations can achieve when they get behind a cause that matters.

Getting involved in Healthy Minds Care doesn’t have to mean organising a major fundraising event or committing significant resources. Often, it’s the smaller initiatives that bring people together and create a positive impact.

Here are a few ways your organisation can take part:

• Start with something simple: Organise a bake sale, dress-down day, coffee morning or another informal workplace activity. Small contributions can add up and help sustain Richmond’s work.
• Bring your team together: Give colleagues an opportunity to connect outside their usual routines, have some fun and work towards a shared goal. Supporting a meaningful cause can give everyone a sense of purpose and collective achievement.
• Support people and families: Funds raised help Richmond provide essential psychological, emotional and practical support, including residential care and assistance within the community, for people experiencing mental health difficulties.
• Make it your own: There’s no single formula for fundraising. Choose an activity that suits your organisation, set a fundraising target and encourage your team to participate in whatever way they can.
• Keep the conversation going: Use the initiative as an opportunity to encourage more open conversations about mental health within your workplace. Remind employees that it’s okay to ask for help, whether by speaking to HR or accessing dedicated support services. The more openly we talk about mental health, the less likely people are to feel ashamed or embarrassed about seeking support when they need it.

Get in touch with Richmond Foundation to find out more about Healthy Minds Care, explore fundraising ideas that suit your workplace and discover how your team can get involved.

Together, even small workplace initiatives can make a meaningful difference to individuals and families across Malta.