Ongoing Efforts to Foster Mental Well-being at Ustwo

According to Julie Piedrabuena, Head of People and Culture at Ustwo Games, supporting mental health in the gaming industry requires ongoing effort and a willingness to adapt. She emphasized the importance of listening to employee feedback and catering to individual needs during a talk at the GamesIndustry.biz HR summit. Piedrabuena highlighted the growing awareness of mental health issues, citing statistics that show 38% of respondents in the UKIE census reported experiencing anxiety, depression, or both. This figure has increased from 31% pre-pandemic, underscoring the need for studios to prioritize mental well-being. Ustwo has implemented various initiatives based on employee feedback, including providing desks and equipment for remote work, offering commuting expenses, and creating a travel allowance to support employees returning to the studio. The company has also established an afternoon club, monthly meetings, and training sessions focused on mental health awareness, empathy, and inclusivity. Additionally, Ustwo has introduced a work-from-anywhere policy, increased sick leave, and improved flexible benefits, such as yoga classes and charitable donations. Piedrabuena stressed that flexibility and inclusive policies are crucial for supporting employee mental health and well-being, particularly during times of change like the pandemic. She encouraged studios to prioritize mental health, listen to employee feedback, and partner with organizations to create a positive and supportive work culture. By doing so, studios can improve morale, productivity, and talent retention, ultimately fostering a thriving and creative work environment.