Creating a supportive buddy system for mental wellbeing

Fostering a sense of community in the workplace

Traditionally used to support new starters, buddy systems are often introduced during onboarding to help employees settle in, understand team dynamics, and feel welcomed. While this remains a valuable approach, the role of buddy systems is evolving.

As mental health continues to be a pressing issue in the modern workplace, buddy systems are emerging as a practical, peer-led solution for ongoing emotional support.

What is a buddy system?

A buddy system pairs employees for informal, mutual support—focused on emotional wellbeing rather than performance or career progression. It provides a safe space for open conversation, shared experiences, and encouragement.

Originally used to help new hires feel connected during onboarding, buddy systems now serve a broader purpose—supporting mental health, especially in remote or hybrid environments where isolation is common.

Why introduce a buddy system?

The modern workplace brings significant mental and emotional pressures. While Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) offer essential clinical support, buddy systems provide an accessible, day-to-day layer of peer support.

Key drivers of stress include:
•    High workloads and tight deadlines leading to burnout
•    Compliance and regulatory pressure in highly governed sectors
•    Remote and hybrid work increasing isolation and disconnect

A buddy system acts as a proactive, early support measure—helping employees manage stress and build resilience before issues require clinical intervention. Wellcome’s Workplace Mental Health Commission found that peer support can reduce workplace stress and increase retention, especially among younger employees, who are more likely to take time off due to stress-related mental health concerns¹.

How it fits with other support

While buddy systems do not replace clinical care, they complement professional resources by creating everyday support networks.

Steps to implement a buddy system

Thinking about introducing a buddy system at work? Here are a few things that can help it land well and really make a difference:

  1. Get leadership on board – When leaders support the initiative, it shows it’s something the business truly values. That backing helps people feel safe getting involved. 
  2. Be clear about what a buddy system is (and isn’t) – This isn’t therapy. It’s a safe space for people to check in with each other.
  3. Make it voluntary and confidential – People should feel free to opt in (or out), knowing that conversations stay private.
  4. Pair thoughtfully – Take the time to think about who might click. Look at roles, working patterns, and personalities to help the pairings feel natural.
  5. Provide basic training – People don’t need to become counsellors. But a few tips on how to listen well and where to signpost if someone’s struggling can help them feel confident.
  6. Schedule regular check-ins – It’s the consistency that counts, so encourage regular, informal chats – whether that’s over coffee, Teams, or a quick walk.
  7. Integrate with other benefits – Let people know what professional support is available too. A buddy system works best when it sits alongside your EAP and other support services.
  8. Review and refine – Gather feedback regularly to improve the system and ensure it remains relevant and effective.

When professional help Is needed

Buddy systems are a helpful first step – but they’re not a substitute for clinical support. Employees should always be encouraged to seek professional support for:

  • Ongoing anxiety or depression
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
  • Substance misuse
  • Severe burnout impacting performance

Bring it all together

Buddy systems work best when they’re part of a broader approach to wellbeing. Alongside peer support, digital tools like myStrength* can help employees manage stress, sleep better, and build resilience through guided meditations and personalised activities.

And when someone needs more structured support, services like WeCare* provide 24/7 access to confidential counselling and expert advice.
By combining everyday check-ins with easy access to professional help, employers can create a workplace where people feel genuinely supported—both day to day and when it matters most.

¹Wellcome Trust - Putting science to work - Understanding what works for workplace mental health
* myStrength and WeCare are provided to Canada Life Limited customers by Teladoc Health. These services are non-contractual and do not form part of your insurance contract with us. If our partnership with Teladoc Health ends, the service can be withdrawn at any time.