Implementation of the ASCEND Training for Supervisors in Dutch Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Summary

This cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an in-person group intervention for workplace supervisors - Advancing Supervisors' Capacity for Mental Health at Work (ASCEND) - in Dutch Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The ASCEND intervention is designed to equip supervisors with the skills to: i) know when to support their workers; ii) how to direct workers to support, and iii) advocate for action on mental health at work.

The primary objectives of this project are to:

* Assess to what extent the novel, WHO-developed ASCEND intervention is effective in enhancing supervisors' confidence, responsiveness, mental health literacy, and SelfCare practices, and in reducing supervisor stigma towards mental health conditions within Dutch SMEs.
* Evaluate the impact of the ASCEND intervention on employee outcomes, including mental health and work-related outcomes among supervisees (i.e., subordinates), as well as overall organizational absenteeism rates.
* Identify barriers, facilitators, and key implementation and adoption indicators to support future opportunities for scaling up the ASCEND intervention in the context of Dutch SMEs.

Researchers will compare two groups to evaluate the effectiveness of the ASCEND intervention. One group will receive the training (the intervention group), while the other group will receive the training after the final follow-up period (the control group).

Data will be collected from both supervisors and their supervisees (i.e., subordinates) via online questionnaires at various time points. In addition, general organizational information, including absenteeism rates, will be gathered through a representative from each participating organization.

To further explore the feasibility of scaling up the ASCEND intervention within the Netherlands, qualitative data will be collected through interviews and/or focus group discussions.

Conditions

• Sickness Absence
• Occupational Health
• Stress
• Burnout
• Mental Health Conditions

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Advancing Supervisors' Capacity for Mental Health at Work (ASCEND)

The intervention will consist of a training that incorporates evidence-based content and interactive exercises. Advancing Supervisors' Capacity for Mental Health at Work (ASCEND) covers five core topics designed to equip supervisors with the knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively support the mental health of their employees. The full training is delivered over approximately 8 hours in an in-person group setting. Trainings are facilitated by a trained professional. To support learning and skill application, participants will also receive a Manager Reference Booklet during the training. This booklet consolidates key information from the ASCEND training, serving both as a learning aid during the sessions and a practical, quick-reference tool afterward. It includes summaries of key concepts, tips, and exercises, along with space for participants to record notes.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• World Health Organization

  collaborator OTHER

• University of Copenhagen

  collaborator OTHER

• University Hospital Heidelberg

  collaborator OTHER

• VU University of Amsterdam

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Mark van Vugt, PhD · VU University of Amsterdam

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

PREVENTION

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-05-14

Primary Completion

2026-09-30

Completion

2026-09-30

Countries

• Netherlands

Study Locations