VW launches #DownTools campaign to support driver mental health

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched a campaign to re-establish a better work-life balance following the damaging impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the mental health of the UK’s workforce.

The manufacturer has partnered with the charity Mental Health UK to provide free well-being support and guidance.

Research for the brand’s #DownTools campaign found that 75 per cent of people work beyond their contracted hours and almost half face having to work at least one weekend a month to catch up, with a third admitting working extra hours has increased due to the impact of the pandemic.

Overworking and a lack of work-life balance is causing a quarter of UK employees to feel overwhelmed on a weekly basis, with one in 10 admitting it was a daily problem, according to the study of 1,000 UK workers commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Kate Thompson, head of marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “It’s vital that we allow ourselves enough time to switch off from work. The Covid-19 pandemic has blurred the lines between work and life causing a dangerous imbalance, whether that’s struggling to log-off when working from home or battling to keep pace with increased workload. We hope by raising awareness through our #DownTools campaign, we can encourage people to make their mental health a priority, because ultimately we work better when we feel better.”

Almost half of the UK’s workforce have experienced a mental health issue in the past year, with the negative impact of Covid-19 leading to lack of sleep, migraines, and panic attacks.

In a bid to redraw the lines between work and life, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is urging the UK workforce to call it a day, when the day is done. It has partnered with Mental Health UK to curate an essential well-being toolbox, providing free support and guidance.

Katie Legg, director, strategy and partnerships at Mental Health UK, said: “It’s impossible to do our best work without prioritising our mental health. This campaign is a valuable reminder of the importance of taking time out to focus on our wellbeing and all the benefits that can bring.

“We’re proud to work with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to create this set of helpful resources and hope it will empower employees to better understand the relationship between their work and mental health, and the practical steps they can take to help regain that sense of balance.”

To find out more about the #DownTools campaign and access the free Mental Health UK advice and guidance visit: https://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/downtools.