Case Study

Supporting Small businesses with mental health: A collaborative approach

10 Sep 2025

Running a small business in London brings with it a unique set of pressures — from financial uncertainty and long hours to the emotional toll of leadership. Recognising the vital link between mental wellbeing and business success, Ingeus is proud to highlight the partnership between Able Futures (an Ingeus-led group of partners who deliver the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service) and Grow London Local. The partnership is helping small business owners, apprentices, and self-employed professionals access tailored mental health support. 

Grow London Local, launched in January 2024 by London & Partners and supported by the Mayor of London, offers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the capital access to practical resources, events, and skills development. Able Futures complements this initiative by providing confidential, one-to-one mental health support designed specifically for the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small business teams. The support covers managing stress and anxiety, improving sleep and motivation, building resilience and maintain focus. All of which are key for sustainable business growth. 

“Working with Grow London Local has allowed us to connect with small businesses in a much more meaningful way,” explains Debbie Burns, Business Account Manager at Able Futures. “Through this collaboration, we’ve been able to integrate mental health support into the broader conversation about business growth. We’re not just talking about productivity or profit—we’re talking about the people behind those businesses. By providing timely, free and practical mental health support, we’re helping entrepreneurs build resilience and thrive, even in the most challenging circumstances.” 

Able Futures plays a vital role in helping business owners and their teams access the emotional and psychological support they need to make the most of available resources. By fostering a workplace culture that values wellbeing, sustainability, and community impact alongside traditional measures of success, they’re helping businesses to thrive in all areas. 

The impact of this partnership is already being felt across sectors — from creative industries and retail to hospitality and freelance professionals. Business owners who’ve accessed support report improved decision-making, renewed confidence, and a greater sense of control in both their work and personal lives. 

When leaders feel supported emotionally and psychologically, they’re better equipped to handle pressure, make informed decisions, and foster a healthy workplace culture. This not only benefits individual businesses — it contributes to wider economic wellbeing. 

Small business owners who have engaged with the Able Futures programme consistently share positive feedback. Many say the support helped them shift their perspective, navigate challenges more effectively, and regain confidence in both their professional and personal lives. 

The collaboration between Grow London Local and Able Futures is already making a difference across diverse sectors — from creative freelancers and startups to retail and hospitality. By combining practical business guidance with tailored mental health support, these entrepreneurs are better prepared to grow, adapt, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. 

Together, Grow London Local and Able Futures are helping to shape a more resilient, inclusive, and mentally healthy business community — strengthening London’s economy. 

Learn how Able Futures can support your business.