Work, Wellbeing and Generation Z with Barbara Sherriff

In the fourth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Barbara Sherriff, a doctoral researcher from the University of Brighton. Barbara’s research examines the relationship between work and mental wellbeing — a pressing issue in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing prevalence of mental health challenges in the workplace.Focusing on Generation Z employees, Barbara explores how expectations, communication, and organisational culture shape young people’s experiences at work. Through employer interviews, surveys, and focus groups, her study highlights the importance of proactive support systems — from wellness action plans to mental health training — in fostering healthier, more engaged workplaces. Her findings offer practical insights for employers aiming to reduce dissatisfaction and sick leave while building more supportive environments for emerging generations of workers.You can read a transcript of the conversation here.Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at southcoastdtp.ac.ukThis is a Research Podcasts production.Credits:Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research PodcastsGuest: Barbara Sheriff, University of BrightonProducer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research PodcastsEditor: Anton Jarvis, Research PodcastsTranscripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.