Ryan FowlerWagamama, the renowned restaurant chain, has announced a significant contribution towards mental health support, donating £40,000 to Shout, a 24/7 text messaging service aiding individuals struggling with mental health issues. This donation will fund 4,000 conversations between those in need and Shout volunteers.
Beyond financial support, Wagamama has committed 50,000 hours of employee volunteer time to assist Shout’s mission and aims to help recruit and train 1,000 volunteers for the service in 2024. This partnership aligns with Wagamama’s longstanding commitment to mental health advocacy and its efforts to support charities and initiatives in this crucial area.
The collaboration will also see Wagamama hosting events nationwide to provide support and guidance through significant life changes, offering a safe space and expert advice on topics such as becoming a parent, coming out, starting university, and combating loneliness.
Thomas Heier, CEO of Wagamama, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with Shout as we aim to make a positive impact on mental health support across the UK. By joining forces with Shout, we look to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges. We hope that with our donation, volunteer recruitment efforts and internal pledge of support, we will positively contribute to the amazing work that Shout already do.”
Wagamama supports its employees with a range of benefits, including financial wellbeing support via Salary Finance, discounts on retail, leisure, and gym memberships, a generous staff discount, long service awards, a bikes-for-work scheme, and access to confidential counseling services.
