Did you know that around 1 in 4 of us experiences a mental health problem each year, with stress, anxiety, and depression being the most common ones? These issues can have a far-reaching impact beyond the individual, affecting the workplace with raised levels of absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased staff turnover.
But here’s the good news: employers can take a proactive approach to support their employees’ mental health and wellbeing, and many do. Whether it’s through mental wellbeing courses for all or training for those who wish to offer assistance in the role of a ‘Mental Wellbeing First Aider,’ employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee wellbeing and create a more supportive and compassionate workplace culture that enables individuals to thrive.
By offering mental wellbeing courses, employers can help all employees develop an understanding of how to manage their mental health and wellbeing more effectively and gain awareness of how to recognise early signs of decline in themselves and others. This can promote a more
open and supportive corporate culture and help to reduce the stigma or silence around mental health in the workplace – a significant barrier to individuals seeking help.
So why not take a proactive approach to support your employees’ mental health and wellbeing? By doing so, you can create a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce.
As a responsible business leader, you wouldn’t operate your business without physical first aiders. So why would you fail to train Wellbeing First Aiders when you have a duty of care to the mental wellbeing of employees?
These individuals can offer invaluable support to colleagues who may be experiencing a decline in their mental health or emotional distress, perhaps even reaching a crisis point. Mental Health First Aiders are not therapists or counsellors, but they can listen empathically, signpost avenues of support, and suggest practical, real-life ways to help.
They may become a vital part of the individual’s support system, helping prevent the escalation of a mental health problem and empowering them to find a way forward that feels right for them, allowing them to function more productively.
The provision of Mental Wellbeing First Aiders can provide a safe and trusted point of contact for employees struggling with their mental health, breaking down barriers that may prevent them from seeking help. It sends a clear message to employees that their mental health and wellbeing is a priority, which can have a positive impact on employee morale and engagement.
Investing in mental health support for employees is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense. By creating a workplace culture that prioritises mental health and wellbeing, you enable employees to thrive, which benefits the organisation by reducing absenteeism, improving productivity and staff retention, and promoting a positive working environment.
The two-day Mental Wellbeing First Aider course:
- Equips delegates with confidence and competence to offer support to colleagues experiencing mental health issues.
- Workshop-style course: Provides opportunities for discussion, practice, and questions.
- No prior mental health training or knowledge required.
- Delivered in person (for groups of 12-16) or online (in mixed cohorts)
- Aligned with Health and Safety Executive guidance and best practice.
- No formal assessment: The focuses is on practical learning outcomes.
- Delegates are awarded a certificate, valid for 3 years, recognising them as a Mental Wellbeing First Aider (certified by SkillBase First Aid)
We are delighted to partner with Prima Voca Ltd, a company specialising in training Mental Wellbeing First Aiders for the workplace to deliver these courses. Their facilitators are qualified and experienced educators and mental health professionals whose delivery is inclusive, personal and engaging.
In the modern workplace, wellbeing is essential for efficiency, productivity and staff morale. Being a caring company enhances your brand reputation and makes you more appealing when recruiting or retaining talent.