DataLase has recently taken steps to ensure that it has a trained mental health first aider available on site to recognise the signs that someone may need support with their mental health and to offer assistance. Hannah Roscoe (pictured below), the company’s HR manager, recently completed the Mental Health First Aid Two-Day course from MHFA England and is now suitably qualified.
The impact of mental health on businesses across the UK amounts to £34.9 bn every year, mainly due to loss of productivity. This equates to 72 million working days being lost each year due to mental health issues, or as much as £1300 per employee every single year. One of the most effective ways to safeguard employees and reduce these costs is to provide proper mental first aid training in the workplace. Mental health first aid is knowing how to spot the signs and symptoms of common mental health concerns, and assisting people in need of help. With trained staff members, businesses can support staff and reduce the financial impact of mental health by up to 30%.
“As a business, we are constantly reviewing what we can do to support our employees’ health and wellbeing,” said Roscoe. “Statistically, one in four of us will experience a mental health issue in any given year. It’s important therefore that we recognise that people have a lot going on in their lives, not just from a work perspective. I asked myself, in my role as HR manager, if an individual came to me struggling with their mental health, would I have the skills and knowledge to help that person in the best way possible? I decided to attend mental health first aid to improve my knowledge and understanding on mental health to provide the best support I could. It’s so important we all look after our mental health, recognising signs and knowing where to turn is vital.”
A trained Mental Health First Aider can start productive conversations about mental health, be a role model for how to manage mental health, promote a greater understanding of the importance of mental health, and play a significant part in ending stigma and discrimination around mental health in the workplace. To find out more visit https://mhfaengland.org
