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We often talk about wellbeing; about becoming stronger, fitter and healthier. But it doesn’t stop at the gym floor. Looking after your mental health is just as important as caring for your body, and at David Lloyd Clubs, we take that seriously.
Whether it’s finding a moment of calm, opening up about how you’re feeling, or simply knowing you’re not alone, we’re here to support you every step of your wellbeing journey. Our Inclusion Resource Groups, Mental Health First Aiders and wider support networks are there to listen, to check in and to remind us all: it’s okay not to be okay – and even better to talk about it.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s keep the conversation going together.
Working with our DLBeWell Inclusion Resource Group, we invited colleagues to share their journeys, inspirations and what Mental Health Awareness Week means to them, using videos and written stories.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, support is available. You can call Samaritans on 116 123 for free, 24/7, or visit mind.org.uk, or mentalhealth.org.uk for advice, resources and someone to talk to.
As a Training Manger at David Lloyd Clubs, delivering the Mental Health First Aid Training programme and being Chair of the Inclusion Resource Group for Mental Health, I’m passionate about supporting others but what truly makes a difference is the community I’m part of every day. Being surrounded by a team that values wellbeing, connection, and kindness creates an environment where I feel supported too. It’s not just a workplace; it’s a space where conversations about mental health are welcomed, and where colleagues look out for one another. That sense of belonging helps me stay grounded and reminds me I’m not alone, even when supporting others through challenging moments. Working here reinforces everything I teach how powerful community can be for our mental health. It’s a place where I can be both a trainer and me, supported by people who genuinely care.
Working for David Lloyd has made a real difference to my mental health. Having been through two difficult episodes in the past, I know I can be quite sensitive to anxiety, so being in the right environment is really important to me. One thing that helps me a lot is having access to my local club. Being able to exercise regularly gives me a way to manage stress and clear my head, which I’ve found is essential for staying balanced. I also genuinely value the people I work with. I feel lucky to be part of such a kind and supportive group of colleagues, where there’s a real sense of understanding and looking out for each other. On top of that, knowing there’s a mental health lead I can turn to if I ever need support is incredibly reassuring. It makes me feel safe, supported, and valued at work.
The community at David Lloyd Clubs has really had a positive impact on my mental health and wellbeing, Even when I’m not physically in a club, there’s still that strong sense of community across the whole business, whether it’s team events, visiting clubs, meeting people in the gym, or just connecting with new colleagues, it helps me feel part of something bigger. In a busy working environment, having a supportive and social atmosphere makes a huge difference. It gives me space to switch off, reset, and not feel so caught up in the day-to-day pressures. Being in the office, whether I’m with my team or the friends I’ve made along the way, makes it easier to clear my head, have a laugh, and come back feeling more like myself and ready to go again
Even though working in Club Support splitting my time between working from home and Club visits the David Lloyd Clubs community still wraps around me with a real sense of warmth and support. Staying connected with the team, even from a distance, makes me feel part of something bigger and genuinely uplifting. The kindness, encouragement, and shared energy across the group brighten my day and help ease the loneliness that can come with working remotely. Whether it’s a friendly message, a team catch‑up, or simply knowing there are people who care, the David Lloyd community helps me feel grounded, valued, and more balanced. It gives me a gentle reminder to look after myself and brings a positive boost to my mental health and overall wellbeing.
Being part of David Lloyd Clubs is being part of a collective journey towards better wellbeing. I am surrounding by a community committed to lifting others up, this created an infectious energy and natural mood booster. At David Lloyd Clubs I’ve found a network of individuals who value the essential balance between work, family and self-care. Forming strong bonds in the company has provided a judgement-free support system reminding me that taking time for myself isn’t selfish but is necessary. Whether it’s a post work-out sauna or just a chat in the club room, this priority lowers stress and increases emotional resilience.
Mental Health Awareness week is more than a date in the diary; it’s a reminder to check in. With ourselves. With each other. And with how we’re really feeling. At David Lloyd Clubs, we talk a lot about wellbeing. About moving more, eating well, resting when you need it. But sometimes, it’s the quieter things that matter most. A friendly face. A deep breath. A moment of calm in the middle of the rush. We know mental health isn’t always visible. And no two journeys look the same. That’s why we’re creating spaces where people feel safe, supported, and part of something bigger. Whether it’s a group exercise class that lifts your mood, a coffee that turns into a catch-up, or someone who simply says, “how are you, really?”, those small moments can make all the difference. Let’s keep making space. For honest conversations. For real support. For whatever someone might need, even if they’re not saying it out loud. Because mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all. And looking after it should never be a solo effort.
Community at David Lloyd Clubs plays a vital role in supporting my mental health and wellbeing. The culture is welcoming, supportive and positive, with team members truly living our values creating an energetic environment, recognising each other’s efforts and always striving to do the right thing. I also feel fortunate to have a manager who listens and genuinely cares. Beyond this, access to exceptional health, fitness and wellness facilities for me and my family makes a real difference. It’s more than a workplace — it’s a lifestyle that positively supports both my physical and mental wellbeing.
Mental health matters to me both personally and professionally. As the DEI and Wellbeing Manager, I spend a lot of time supporting others, but I’ve learned that looking after my own wellbeing is just as important. Like many people, I’ve had moments where things have felt overwhelming, and I’ve had to remind myself that it’s okay to pause, ask for support, and not have all the answers. Creating a culture where we can be open about how we’re really feeling isn’t always easy, but it matters. Because when we feel safe to be ourselves, we all thrive. I’m proud to work for David Lloyd Clubs, where my wellbeing is supported.
Being yourself is often a buzz word that’s used but working at David Lloyd Clubs has enabled me to be just that – myself. I’ve always thought of myself as a ‘worrier’ but working at David Lloyd Clubs has enabled me to embrace who I am and instead create space to learn about myself and how to minimise the impact of worrying on my mental health. I have had the opportunity through David Lloyd Clubs to attend a number of development programmes aimed at focusing on these soft skills including an opportunity to use a mentor to help my development. Being me, doesn’t mean I am no longer a worrier, but what is has meant is that can express who I am to those around me, and I am grateful to my manager and team for embracing who I am
I have worked for David Lloyd Clubs for 18 years across several clubs, building a strong network across the Netherlands and Europe. What stands out most is the number of long-term colleagues, creating a real sense of family. We share a strong “will to win” and work toward common goals together. Outside work, I’m a mother with a full-time working partner, so life as a General Manager can be busy and demanding. At times, especially after sleepless nights, it can feel mentally challenging. What makes a difference is the support from my team. I never feel alone, and being able to talk openly helps enormously often that’s already most of the solution. It’s also inspiring to see the growing focus on wellbeing and mental health at David Lloyd Clubs. From my experience: talk about how you feel. My door is always open and I’m here to listen.
When everything feels heavy and it seems like time should stop just so you can breathe, that’s when you need real support the most. This is my story… a difficult journey that, at many points, has felt overwhelming, and that would have been very different without David Lloyd Clubs by my side. I have had to face very painful personal situations, with long processes, decisions that don’t come, and a reality that is sometimes hard to understand. Living with that uncertainty, with the feeling of not being able to protect what matters most, is something that breaks you inside. In the middle of all this, finding understanding, humanity, and support has been essential. My GM, my colleagues, and the Mental Health team have been a real source of strength when I needed it most. The Mental Health team is available 24/7, which provides incredible reassurance during the hardest moments. Our GM regularly reminds us of this support, and the contact phone number is always available on the employee noticeboard, making it easy and accessible to reach out for help when needed. Thanks to this community, I have been able to keep going, even on the days when it felt impossible. Because sometimes, all you need is someone to stand by you so you don’t fall.
Working at David Lloyd Clubs was a goal for me, as the working environment seemed exceptional. After almost a year with David Lloyd Clubs, I can say that my expectations have been far exceeded. I have discovered a very motivating work atmosphere, where mutual support between all departments is natural and constant. I also feel fully supported on a daily basis, which greatly contributes to my personal balance and well-being. I also feel that I play a part in our members’ wellbeing, and they very often bring us back excellent energy in return. This positive exchange creates a true virtuous circle, which enhances both my wellbeing and that of others.
Being within the David Lloyd Clubs business for now 10 years, starting in back of house to now being operations manager, I've been able to work with and meet some amazing people, most of whom I would consider my friends as well as my colleagues. The We Play value is an important element to my personality and our business as a whole, as a workplace we have fun together and it makes my job more enjoyable. I am grateful for these people and the community working at David Lloyd Clubs has given me.