Ustwo's Continuous Commitment to Supporting Staff Mental Well-being

Fostering a supportive environment for mental health in the gaming industry requires ongoing dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each staff member. This was the core message from Ustwo Games' Head of People and Culture, Julie Piedrabuena, during her presentation at the GamesIndustry.biz HR summit. She highlighted that while some companies are increasing their focus on mental well-being, there is still much work to be done, particularly given the higher rates of anxiety and depression within the industry compared to the general population. Piedrabuena shared data indicating that 38% of respondents in a UK census reported suffering from anxiety, depression, or both, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. In response to these challenges, Ustwo has implemented various initiatives based on employee feedback, including providing equipment for remote work, travel allowances, and creating spaces for socialization and team-building. The studio has also expanded its benefits to include more flexible options such as yoga classes and charitable donations, as well as formalizing policies for long-term illnesses and introducing a work-from-anywhere policy. Piedrabuena emphasized the importance of flexibility, inclusivity, and continuous adaptation to support employees' mental health and well-being, encouraging studios to prioritize these aspects and not be afraid to try new approaches and learn from mistakes.