Mental health remains one of the least talked-about challenges in franchising, but Jen Chapman, founder of Cinder and a Mental Health First Aid Trainer, is on a mission to change that. Since launching Cinder during lockdown, Jen has been dedicated to helping franchisors, HR teams and small business owners address the growing mental health crisis within their organisations. Now, she’s taking her efforts one step further.
On Time to Talk Day (6th February), Cinder unveiled a nationwide survey aimed at breaking down barriers and normalising discussions around mental health in franchising. This initiative will provide valuable insights into the industry’s unique challenges, paving the way for a more open and supportive environment.
“Having worked with some of the biggest brands in franchising, I’ve sadly seen firsthand just how common mental health challenges are for those in this industry,” said Jen. “For too long, mental health has been dismissed as a ‘soft’ issue. In many industries, including ours, there has been a longstanding stigma attached to discussing mental wellbeing, leading to a culture where struggles are downplayed, overlooked or even ignored altogether. It doesn’t get the attention it deserves, yet it has a real, measurable impact on business performance. We need hard data to make this issue tangible and show its true effect on the people behind the brands.”
Jen’s passion for mental health advocacy is deeply personal. Diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in her early twenties after experiencing symptoms from childhood, she understands the impact mental health can have on daily life. Her experience supporting franchisors while working at the British Franchise Association (BFA) during lockdown also cemented her determination to bring about real change.
“It was during my time at the BFA that I found myself having organic conversations with both franchisors and franchisees about their concerns – not only for their own mental health but also for the mental health of those around them. Many were unsure of how to go about helping those around them – what language to use, what resources to offer and what actions to put in place. I wanted to do something to help, both in my capacity as a franchise specialist and by drawing from my own experiences and journey.
“Franchisees carry so much on their shoulders. Many have invested their life savings into their business and, for some, it’s their ‘last chance’ after redundancy. That kind of pressure can feel overwhelming, especially when the reality of running a franchise doesn’t immediately match the promise of work-life balance. Franchising is often sold as ‘being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.’ While that’s true in many ways, the day-to-day reality can feel incredibly lonely. Despite the operational support offered by franchisors, many franchisees work long hours, make big decisions alone, and have limited immediate support. That isolation takes its toll.
“Likewise, franchisors face the complex challenge of balancing multiple responsibilities. Not only do they bear the responsibility of providing ongoing support to their entire network of franchisees, but they must also focus on expanding their own business, alongside looking after their own mental health. Juggling these demands can often feel overwhelming, causing many franchisors to neglect their own mental health needs.”
Jen strongly believes businesses need to give mental health the same priority as physical health.
“Leaders often focus on sales and marketing, which is understandable, but if someone is anxious, burnt out or lacking confidence, even the best training won’t help them perform. There’s also a huge disparity when it comes to first aid – brands are quick to provide physical first aid training, but mental health first aid often gets overlooked. If someone’s struggling mentally, they need support just like they would for a physical injury. This needs to be seen as a necessity, not just a bonus.”
The importance of data-driven change
The survey represents a crucial next step in ending the stigma surrounding mental health in franchising. “We know that mental health affects everyone differently, and it’s clear that the pressures faced by franchisees and franchisors are unique. By gathering real data, we can identify the areas where support is most needed and start meaningful conversations that drive change.”
The survey takes just two minutes to complete and remains open until 30th April. Results will be shared during the first-ever National Franchise Wellbeing Week on 16th June, in partnership with the BFA. Respondents will receive free mental health resources and can opt into a prize draw to win a £100 Virgin Experience voucher.
“This wouldn’t be happening without the amazing support from my sponsors – Graeme Mckinnon, CEO of franchising coaching brand Franchology, Simon Bishop, Director and Co-founder of GDPR systems, Platinum Wave, Rev PR and Elite Franchise. Their backing has helped get these important conversations off the ground,” said Jen. “The insights we gain from this survey will guide how I shape workshops and services to better support mental health in franchising. It’s also a chance to challenge assumptions – including my own – and get people talking about what really matters.
“At the end of the day, I want this initiative to show that mental health isn’t just a personal issue – it’s a business one too. By prioritising these conversations, my aim is for businesses to create healthier, more open workplaces.”
Take part in the survey click here.
