Posted on 16-February-2022   by Imogen Jones

The importance of mental health support in the workplace

Mental Health first aiders Pete Williamson and Les Boyce

Part of our Sustainability Promise includes: “securing the future of our business to continue to support our valued employees and their families”. With this in mind, two of our trusted team members have completed Mental Health First Aid Courses.

Meet our two qualified Mental Health First Aiders

Pete Williamson, Clinical & Sales Support Manager (Healthcare UK & Europe), and Les Boyce, Key Account Manager North of England, are now qualified Mental Health First Aiders and able to offer support to Daniels staff and their families during tough times.

The course covered topics such as depression, anxiety, suicide and how to spot signs of a mental health need. Pete and Les put their knowledge into practice through scenarios and role-play to ensure they were ready and confident to offer support in the real world. As well as this, they were taught what the various specialist information helplines offer to make sure they can signpost to the correct one for further help.

Ex Royal Navy and registered nurse Pete said:

“This was a really important thing to do for our team and the company.

“When I was in the forces, there was nothing like this available. Phrases such as “man up” were common and no one understood or acknowledged mental health fully. For me, completing this course was an extension to my nursing and something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Both Pete and Les say that talking and opening up is essential to anyone suffering.

Les added:

“It was an intense course and really opened our eyes. 1 in 4 people suffer with a mental health issue and it is important that staff know that someone is there to listen. Even if you are not currently in crisis, talking about worries and problems benefits your general mental health.”

Now they are qualified they have a responsibility to look out for indicators of mental health and encourage people to open up about their concerns.

Mental health resources and help available

It is important that mental health is taken seriously and that help is available if needed, both in and out of the workplace. If you feel like you are struggling, here are a few helpful organisations that could help. Don’t suffer on your own, help is available with no judgement.

The Samaritans (Charity)
Every day, they respond to around 10,000 calls for help. No judgement. No pressure. They are there for anyone who needs someone.

Shout 85258 (Charity)
Feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed or in need of support? Shout 85258 is the UK’s first free, confidential 24/7 text support service. It is anonymous and won’t appear on your bill.

MIND (Charity)
They provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. They also list a number of extra resources and/or helplines and listening services.

Imogen is the Product Manager for our SHARPSGUARD® range, and our Marketing Manager for the UK & Ireland.