Highway Traffic Management Ltd (HTM) has announced a key update to its company values, changing its long-standing focus on “Mental Health” to a broader, more inclusive commitment to “Wellbeing.”

This shift reflects HTM’s ongoing commitment to supporting the holistic health of its workforce — recognising that wellbeing encompasses not only mental health, but also physical, emotional, financial and social wellbeing.

“We want every team member to feel seen, supported, and empowered — in every area of their life,” said Lucinda Sturman, Head of HR at HTM.

“Updating this value allows us to take a more rounded approach to employee support and better reflect the diverse needs of our workforce.”

The new value is broken down into 5 ’pillars’ of wellbeing:

• Mental Health
• Physical Health
• Financial Wellbeing
• Social and Peer Support
• Work Life Balance

Our five pillars of wellbeing create a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. By understanding the factors that shape our daily lives, we take a holistic approach to prioritising our people’s wellbeing.

The update builds on several years of proactive mental health initiatives at HTM, including the appointment of trained Mental Health First Aiders, regular awareness campaigns, and peer support networks. The company will continue to invest in these areas while expanding resources and initiatives to support physical health, lifestyle balance, financial wellbeing, and workplace inclusion.

Managing Director, Greg Baldwin, shared some insight: “Whilst we are celebrating our 30th year in business this year, one of the reasons we have been able to succeed for this long is down to our ability to adapt and recognise when we need to grow and evolve. This value update is an example of this.”

“We have done so much within the mental health space and gone on a significant journey since 2017’s original Talk More campaign, but acknowledging that mental health is a part of our overall wellbeing is something we believe is key to ensuring people understand their own role and responsibilities in regards to their health and wellbeing overall.”

Wellbeing in Action

HTM plans to roll out several new wellbeing-focused programmes over the coming year, including:

• On-site and virtual wellbeing events
• Access to holistic health resources and training
• Enhanced physical activity and fitness support
• Financial wellness and stress management workshops

Matt Higgs, HSEQ Director, explained: “This update reflects the reality that mental health is a part of our wider, overall wellbeing. By widening our lens, we can create a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone at HTM, with support systems that respect people’s whole selves and take into account all influencing factors to their wellbeing.

“This is about empowering people to take action and understand what steps are within their own control to support positive wellbeing.”

This update to HTM’s core values reinforces its commitment to putting people first and leading by example in the traffic management and highways sector.

What this means going forward

• Continued support for mental health: Mental Health First Aiders, resources, Wellbeing Action Plans and open conversations remain vital.
• Inclusivity at the core: ‘Wellbeing’ better represents the needs of the company’s diverse team — creating space for everyone to feel supported and understood. It brings less stigma and a more open approach to wellbeing.
• Providing the tools to take ownership: Ensuring the business educates their workforce on the tools they can implement to support their wellbeing.