In the workplace, it is a requirement to have trained physical first aiders, however it is less common, and not a requirement, to have any trained mental health first aiders.
Given the statistics below, it is clear to see why there is an increasing movement to make it a legal obligation for organisations to have mental health first aiders, creating a parity of esteem between physical and mental health.
One in four people suffer with mental health conditions every year, yet 75% receive no treatment.
84% of UK line managers believe they are responsible for employee well-being, but only 24% have received training.
Every year it costs businesses £1,300 for each employee whose mental health needs are unsupported.
The annual impact to the economy is estimated to exceed £100 billion.
What is mental health first aid?
Mental Health First Aid training is the only internationally recognised, certificated mental health training. It is an evidence-based programme, which aims to educate and increase knowledge and understanding of mental health.
Participants will gain the confidence and skills needed to support someone displaying signs of mental ill-health. The course will equip participants to be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and facilitate crucial early intervention.
A trusted, calm and non-judgmental listener can be the first step in essential treatment and recovery.
Working with a qualified and experienced partner, such as ForrestHR, will not only give you a recognised qualification, but also provide practical advice on how to put plans in place within the workplace, creating a sustainable culture change around mental health, and developing the skills necessary to look after employee’s well-being.
What are the benefits to your business?
While there are obvious financial benefits to having trained mental health first aiders within your organisation - some estimate that UK businesses can save up to £8 billion annually by implementing better mental wellbeing support in the workplace - it is not all monetary.
Undertaking quality mental health training, supported by a wellbeing strategy within your business, also guides you on how to give your employees the tools to keep themselves healthy and support each other.
Research shows that when employees access early support , it can lead to a faster recovery and stop mental health concerns from escalating to a more serious level. Developing a culture of open and honest conversations, free from stigma within your organisations, lead from the top down, is crucial.
Successfully implementing a culture change such as this will ultimately create a mentally healthy workplace, increase staff wellbeing and ultimately lead to greater productivity.
One of the ancillary benefits to your business is that undertaking officially recognised Mental Health Training and promoting your qualification, can enhance your brand reputation and attract the best talent in the market.
Gaining professional qualifications in Mental Health First Aid
As a standard, ForrestHR provides guidance and advice on looking after the health and wellbeing of your employees, but to cater for this specialised area that we feel is crucial within business, we now endorse and facilitate Mental Health First Aid training courses, delivered by our partners, West Kent Mind.
This two-day practical and skills-based course is recommended not just for HR professionals, but for employees at all levels and business functions. Upon completion, attendees will become a certificated Mental Health First Aider.
You will gain a deeper understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect people’s wellbeing, including your own. We will give you the practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental ill- health and the confidence to step in, reassure and support a person in distress.
West Kent Mind’s experienced trainers will work with you to enhance interpersonal skills such as non-judgemental listening and give you the knowledge to help someone recover their health by guiding them to appropriate support.
The next course will run on Monday 27th January and Thursday 30th January 2020 at the Mercure Hotel in Tunbridge Wells. To book your place now call us on 01892 726060 or email hello@ForrestHR.ccom.