Mental Health Awareness Week 2026: Taking action together at Affinia

18 May 2026

Mental Health Awareness Week (11th–17th May 2026) brought an important reminder that while awareness is vital, real change happens when we take action: for ourselves, for others, and for our community.

We embraced this year’s theme, “Action”, by hosting a range of activities across our offices. Together, we created opportunities to connect, opened safe spaces for honest conversations, and focused on what truly matters: supporting one another. Over the course of the week, colleagues came together to raise awareness, break down stigma, and create a culture whereby mental health is no longer a taboo topic.

Here’s a look back at what we got up to:

Monday: A positive start

We kicked off the week with opportunities to connect across our offices.

Orpington, Harlow and Ipswich enjoyed lunchtime bake-off’s in their offices, bringing everyone together over some fantastic homemade treats. These events not only provided a chance to socialise and enjoy some well-earned indulgence, but also helped raise awareness and foster a strong sense of community and togetherness across the team.

Talk Time Tuesday

Tuesday focused on encouraging open and honest conversations around mental wellbeing. Across our offices, colleagues took the time to connect, share their experiences, and explore simple, practical ways to support both themselves and each other. The focus was on creating a culture where speaking up feels natural and everyone feels heard.

Harlow embraced a Walking & Talking session, getting outside for some fresh air while chatting and checking in with one another. Sutton hosted a relaxed Colour & Chat activity, while Ipswich and Halstead brought people together over lunch, creating a welcoming space for informal, supportive conversations

Wednesday: A midweek boost

By midweek, it was time for a well-deserved pause to recharge and reset. Across several of our offices, teams took the opportunity to step away from their desks and enjoy some light-hearted moments together, whether that was sharing lunch or enjoying a sweet treat.

Harlow tucked into pizza while taking part in a few games, while Ipswich treated themselves to a refreshing midweek ice cream. Sidcup (Station Road) got creative with colouring activities and uplifting quotes.

Thankful Thursday

Thursday focused on appreciation and gratitude: recognising the everyday kindness, support, and teamwork that make our workplace what it is.

Across the firm, colleagues took time to thank one another, celebrating both big contributions and small gestures. From an anonymous appreciation box in Sidcup, to handwritten notes in Orpington and a gratitude board in Sutton, these simple moments created a real sense of connection, reminding us how important it is to recognise and lift each other up.

In honour of Thankful Thursday, we also asked some of our colleagues what they love about working at Affinia, and why they’re thankful to be a part of a people-first firm. Here’s what they said:

This Mental Health Awareness Week, I am incredibly grateful to work at a firm that noticed I was struggling and stepped in to help me.

Being diagnosed with dyslexia was a turning point for me, and the support I’ve had since has made a huge difference, both at work and in my personal life. From the assessment to the software and adjustments put in place, I’ve felt genuinely listened to and supported.

HR and my team have been absolutely brilliant, treating me with real respect and understanding. Having extra time where needed, the right tools in place and regular check‑ins has taken away so much stress and helped me feel secure and confident in my role. It has shown me that this is not something to be ashamed of, and that asking for support can truly change everything

Anthony Tapsell

Payroll Senior

I’m really grateful to be part of a firm that supports wellbeing in a genuine way. Even small things, like colleagues checking in or being flexible when you need it, make a big difference. It’s a great reminder that we’re all looking out for each other.

Jake Gaston
Audit Junior

During Mental Health Awareness Week, I’ve been reminded how grateful I am to work somewhere that genuinely supports our wellbeing, not just this week, but all year round. Knowing there’s understanding and openness around mental health makes a real difference day to day.

Lucy Bennet
Senior Accounts Manager

I’m grateful to be part of a firm that takes mental health seriously. The support is real, consistent and built into the culture. Knowing Affinia care about how we’re really doing makes a huge difference to how supported and valued I feel.

Olly Sharman
Accounts Manager

Friday: Reflecting and celebrating

As the week ended, we took time to reflect on what we’ve achieved together.

It was inspiring to see such positive engagement across the firm, with colleagues embracing opportunities to check in, share experiences, and support one another. Our people are what make us strong, and we’re proud to champion wellbeing while continuing to make Affinia a great place to work.

To round off the week, many teams came together for social events, both over lunch and in the evening, taking time to unwind, strengthen relationships, and build that all-important sense of team culture.

Keeping the momentum going

A huge thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the week so impactful.

Mental Health Awareness Week may be over, but the conversation doesn’t stop here. Let’s continue to take action: for ourselves, and for each other, every day.