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Benevolent to hold London Wine Fair’s first debate on mental health
This year’s London Wine Fair will open up the topic of mental health to members of the trade in a panel discussion for the first time in the show’s history.
Industry leaders will attempt to break down stigma around mental health at this year’s London Wine Fair
Industry leaders, from drinks writers to HR bosses to the head of the Wine and Spirits Trade Association (WSTA), will discuss a report outlining the current mental health difficulties experienced by those in the industry, looking for a way forward to provide support for those affected.
The London Wine Fair is working in partnership with The Benevolent — a trade charity that provides help and support to current and former employees of the drinks industry.
Charity boss Chris Porter will announce the findings of the report, based on a survey sent out to trade workers last month. WSTA chief Miles Beale will then help to lead a discussion on how employers can implement policies that are helpful to workers struggling, alongside Christo Eliott Lockhart, sales manager at specialist importer Hallgarten Druitt, management consultancy founder and self-described wine geek Kat Hounsell, andMike Turner, freelance writer and UK director of 20h33, who has written candidly about the effects of working in the drinks industry on mental health.
Chris Porter, the charity’s chief executive, told the drinks business that mental health is a “crucial topic” for those working within the drinks industry, hence the decision to host a debate at this year’s fair.
“We have a panel where each of the contributors will bring with them a deep understanding of the UK drinks industry as well as providing expertise on mental health difficulties experienced in the UK drinks industry. I want to extend my deep gratitude to our panellists and a heartfelt thank you to The London Wine Fair for supporting us so generously and being part of the social movement aimed at removing the stigma around mental health.”
The Mental Health Panel Discussion will take place at 12h30 on Wednesday, 23rd May in the London Room, Olympia.