The British Antarctic Survey, with a team of 650 dedicated professionals, delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the polar regions.
The problem
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) operates in one of the most extreme work environments on Earth, with over 60% of staff regularly working at Antarctic stations. These harsh conditions pose significant physical and emotional challenges, which can affect employee wellbeing and mental health. Given the isolation, extreme temperatures, and demanding nature of the work, the need for robust wellbeing strategies was clear. BAS recognised the importance of addressing both the psychological and physical health of their staff to ensure a supportive and sustainable work environment.
The solution
To enhance employee wellbeing and cultivate a sense of belonging, BAS implemented a comprehensive, staff-driven approach. The organisation collaborated with employees who had firsthand experience of working in Antarctica, ensuring that strategies were directly informed by those facing the daily challenges of extreme conditions. This resulted in the integration of psychological safety into the health and safety framework, with staff actively involved in shaping wellbeing initiatives.
Key initiatives included:
- Psychological risk assessments to address mental health challenges.
- Support services such as confidential counselling, Mental Health First Aiders, and wellness programmes.
- The launch of the Safety Together campaign, which promoted inclusivity and mental and physical health and featured panel discussions and awards to recognise contributions to safety and wellbeing.
- The establishment of a Mental Health First Aid network, expanding access to trained mental health support.
Additionally, BAS prioritised ongoing training, including Mental Health First Aid for managers, to ensure they could offer adequate support to their teams. A dedicated wellbeing budget and regular reviews of the wellbeing programme ensured the initiatives were continually refined and sustained.
The results
The impact of BAS’s wellbeing initiatives is evident from the positive feedback and survey results. Over 70% of staff reported that they felt BAS genuinely cares for their wellbeing, indicating a strong sense of support and belonging within the organisation. The introduction of mental health training for managers has led to improved managerial support, empowering leaders to address wellbeing issues more effectively within their teams.
The creation of the Mental Health First Aid network has been instrumental in expanding access to mental health support, with a growing number of staff volunteering to become Mental Health First Aiders themselves. This initiative has significantly increased the availability of peer-to-peer support and helped foster a caring, supportive culture across the organisation.
Through regular reviews and a sustained commitment to wellbeing, BAS has created a safe, inclusive, and nurturing work environment that enhances employee engagement and retention. The combination of staff involvement, tailored support services, and a clear organisational commitment to mental and physical health has made BAS a leader in promoting wellbeing and belonging in challenging work environments.
The information contained within this resource was accurate at the time of its publication. This article was created in April 2025.