HOBART UK and Service prioritise workplace mental health and wellbeing by introducing Mental Health First Aiders
Post pandemic, mental health issues including stress and anxiety are on the rise. It is now more critical than ever for companies act on their duty of care by supporting staff wellbeing and actively promoting a positive workplace.
HOBART UK and Service are dedicated to supporting staff wellbeing and have recently enrolled 12 staff members on a Mental Health First Aid Course.
Joanne Kemp, European HR Director for ITW Food Equipment commented,
“It is reported that one in four adults experience mental health problems in any given year and that due to the pandemic, mental health problems are on the rise. Employee health and wellbeing will always be important to our Leadership team who recognise now, more than ever, that it is time to consider how we can improve our employee’s mental health in the workplace.”
HOBART asked for volunteers to attend the course and the response was overwhelming. Joanne explains, “We had a phenomenal response to our request for volunteers to be a Mental Health First Aiders. The individuals represented a good cross section of our businesses and so the Managing Directors decided to put everyone forward for the training.
“The training is accredited by MHFA England and the aim is to equip the First Aiders with the confidence to spot the early warning signs of mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety disorders, stress etc.) and to encourage early intervention.”
Tina Jacklin, Credit Controller for HOBART Service commented on why being a Mental Health First Aider is important to her,
"Being a mental health first aider is important to me because I want people to know that there is someone to talk to, when they need them.
"There is so much stigma attached to mental health, it's important that people know it's okay to feel however they feel."
Nicola Rolfe, Customer Service Administrator for HOBART UK volunteered to be a Mental Health First Aider,
“(I am) So proud to work for a company that promotes wellbeing for all staff and invests in training of staff. Remembering it's ok to not be ok is something we should all remember. A great insight and I thoroughly enjoyed my course.”
Gareth Williams, Contracts, Database and Invoice Manager for HOBART Service who is another memeber of the Mental Health First Aiders team added,
"I really enjoyed the course and it's great to work for a company that has a real focus on mental health and the wellbeing of its staff. Mental Health conditions are one of the main drivers of absence from the workplace and it’s just as important as physical health. I volunteered as a Mental health First Aider (MHFA), as over the years I’ve seen friends and colleagues suffer and I wanted to put myself in a position to help.
"Going through the MHFA training has given me the knowledge and confidence to provide the necessary support and guidance and helped to focus on my own wellbeing."
Joanne concluded, “This is just the first step in our approach to supporting employees with their psychological wellbeing. Health and safety is the responsibility of everyone. Our strategy is to educate our employees, create a positive workplace culture and guide and support employees with their mental health needs. This knowledge and encouragement of open communication will help our teams to build up their mental resilience.”
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