For over 25 years, Critical Software has created software solutions and engineering services to make critical systems safer and more reliable, reflecting its mission to build a better and safer world.
That same purpose extends to its people through the “Critical Wellbeing Program”, an initiative designed to support the holistic wellbeing of every employee. Launched in early 2022 by the Culture & Impact Team , supported by senior leadership, it is a core part of the company’s culture and people strategy.
Structured around three interconnected pillars – Mental, Physical and Social Wellbeing – it ensures a comprehensive framework supporting employees throughout their careers, to create a healthy, sustainable and high performing workplace.
How it works?
Each wellbeing pillar is supported by a set of permanent initiatives that provide continuous and structured support. Together, they create an environment where people can thrive, not only at work but in life. It is guided by principles of work-life balance that encourage setting healthy boundaries, maintaining balanced agendas, respecting holiday periods, and seeking help when needed.
- Mental Wellbeing - At the heart of this pillar is the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), offering a 24/7 helpline, monthly wellbeing workshops, and free annual appointments in Psychology, Nutrition, Financial/Fiscal, and Social support. Complementing this are a trained network of Mental Health First Responders , and a Gradual Return to Work policy, designed to help employees reintegrate smoothly after extended leave through a phased process. Leaders also benefit from Wellbeing Support Sessions , where they can discuss team challenges with a clinical psychologist.
- Physical Wellbeing - This includes on-site medical appointments and Critical Fit , a programme that promotes physical activity while making a positive impact on local charities.
- Social Wellbeing - Built on the belief that connection drives happiness, this pillar brings people together through Culture Clubs , where employees organise local events such as book clubs, cooking classes, or art sessions. Global events such as the Winter Market, Bye Bye Summer party, and Family Day strengthen bonds. There is also “Cheers for Peers ”, a peer-recognition initiative celebrating positive contributions, and Critical Bands which gather employees around music.
The programme is supported by the Critical Cares Team, a dedicated and trained group, within the People Team, that provides personalised guidance across the three pillars. Seasonal and one-off activities - such as Mental Health Week, solidarity walks or workshops aligned with wellbeing days - complement the permanent structure, ensuring wellbeing remains a living, evolving part of the company culture.
Continued evolution
Since its launch, the programme has continued to evolve based on employee feedback and emerging needs. New initiatives are introduced regularly, such as on-site medical appointments added in early 2025.
One of the most impactful additions has been Wellbeing Support Sessions for Leaders. These are interactive sessions that provide practical tools and guidance to help leaders understand mental wellbeing and support team members facing challenges.
Maximising engagement and access
To maximise engagement and demonstrate organisational commitment, the programme is prominently featured on the company intranet. Regularly promoted through newsletters, events, and internal channels, and introduced to every new employee during the Welcome Days Session.
Accessibility is a key focus. The EAP platform enables employees to easily book appointments, register for workshops, and access wellbeing resources anytime, anywhere. And to ensure accessibility across all geographies, all communications are in English, and most initiatives are delivered online or replicated locally. Each office has a Critical Cares representative and at least one Mental Health First Responder.
Positive impact
The Critical Wellbeing Program has had measurable impact across the organisation. In 2024 alone, over 900 EAP appointments were booked by approximately 300 employees, with psychological support being the most accessed service.
The wellbeing workshops consistently attract strong engagement, with around 200 employees participating in each session, reflecting their relevance across teams.
Employee wellbeing is monitored through bi-weekly surveys sent by the organisation’s engagement platform. The current Health and Wellbeing score stands at 8.4/10 . While this metric is influenced by multiple factors, the improvement suggests a positive correlation with the programme’s initiatives.
Beyond data, a clear cultural shift has taken place. Employees are increasingly open to discussing mental health – both formally and informally – and many cite the programme as a key source of support and a reflection of the company’s values.
Looking Ahead
The Critical Wellbeing Program is now recognised as a core element of the organisation’s culture and employee experience, representing a long-term commitment to the health and wellbeing of all employees.
To maintain its relevance, the programme is reviewed and adapted regularly based on feedback, usage data, and emerging needs. By continuously listening and evolving, Critical Software ensures that the programme remains impactful, inclusive, and resilient over time, and effectively embeds wellbeing into the business culture.