What is Cinder’s franchise mental health survey?
“It’s a chance for the franchise community to help shape meaningful, practical change,” explains Jen Chapman, founder of Cinder and mental health first-aid trainer.
Why the survey matters
The sector-wide questionnaire takes only a few minutes and will remain open until May 31. Results are due the following month, forming a core part of Franchise Mental Health Awareness Week 2026, whose theme is Turning Intention into Action.
Turning intention into action
“Last year’s survey was an important step in getting people talking more openly about mental health in franchising,” says Chapman. “Awareness alone isn’t enough. This year we need to understand what people are really experiencing and what practical support the sector needs next.”
She adds, “Franchising is often described as being in business for yourself, but not by yourself. While that support network is a strength, business ownership can still feel incredibly challenging. Franchisees may face financial pressure, long hours and emotional weight, while franchisors balance network needs with organisational growth.”
Cinder’s origins
Cinder was launched during lockdown to help franchisors, HR teams and small-business owners address a growing mental-health crisis. Chapman’s work draws on her own lived experience of OCD and conversations with franchisors and franchisees while at the British Franchise Association. Since then, she has partnered with brands across the sector to promote healthier conversations around stress, burnout and workplace wellbeing.
Sector support
The 2026 campaign is backed by key voices such as Simon Bishop, director and co-founder of GDPR Systems, Platinum Wave, Rev PR and Elite Franchise. Their involvement extends the survey’s reach and sparks broader dialogue about mental health across the franchise community.
How to take part
Participants are encouraged to share the survey with their networks – franchisors, franchisees, suppliers and anyone working within the industry. “This is not just Cinder’s campaign – it is a sector-wide conversation. Your voice matters,” Chapman stresses.
To complete the survey, click here.
