Backup Tech, the charity supporting those working behind the scenes in the entertainment technology industry, has launched a Workplace Wellness initiative developed by newly appointed Backup Ambassador, Gemma Fletcher. The programme aims to help those working on the technical and production side of entertainment by providing some self-help tools which can easily be implemented in their everyday work routines to check in on their own wellbeing.

In her role as an Ambassador, Fletcher will champion the charity’s mission throughout the entertainment industry, spreading awareness of its work and helping create wellbeing-related initiatives that tie in with Backup’s remit, as well as recruiting corporate partners and supporting individual fundraising efforts.

In line with this, the initiative recognises that entertainment industry workers often become disconnected from their physical and emotional wellbeing due to the fast-paced, high-pressure nature of their work environment. By promoting self-awareness and providing practical tools, the programme aims to help individuals move from merely surviving, to truly thriving in their careers.

The Workplace Wellness initiative centres on mindful self-monitoring and reconnecting with physical sensations and the present moment. Participants are encouraged to pay attention to sights, sounds, smells and tastes as a pathway to greater awareness and emotional regulation.

The initiative provides entertainment professionals with a comprehensive toolkit to prevent industry-related stress from becoming overwhelming, emphasising the importance of knowing what support is readily available, and where to access help when needed.

Key components of the programme include:

• Daily mental health check-ins using trusted assessment tools
• Sensory-based grounding techniques utilising music, scent, touch and visualisation
• Holistic nutrition guidance to support both physical and mental energy
• Mindfulness practices focused on observing surroundings and appreciating present moments
• Goal visualisation techniques to promote positive mindset and redirect anxious energy

Backup Tech continues to be at the forefront of supporting the entertainment industry’s workforce, recognising that mental health and wellbeing are fundamental to both individual success and industry sustainability.

“The entertainment industry is incredibly demanding, and too often we see talented professionals burning out because they’re so focused on the work that they forget to take care of themselves,” says Fletcher, who has worked in the entertainment industry for nearly 30 years in a variety of production roles, and is now a qualified Mental Health First Aider and advocate. “This Workplace Wellness initiative isn’t just about managing stress – it’s about fundamentally changing how we approach our relationship with work and wellbeing.

“By giving people practical, accessible tools they can use anywhere, we’re empowering them to become their own wellbeing advocates. The future of our industry depends on creating sustainable working practices that allow creativity to flourish alongside personal health. I’m incredibly proud to partner with Backup on this vital work, and I believe this initiative will set a new standard for how we support our community’s mental health and overall wellbeing.”

To download information about the Workplace Wellness initiative, please click here