Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Four Smith Brothers staff members recently underwent training to become mental health first aiders after partaking in a course ran by Mental Health First Aid, England (MHFA).
Today, one in four people suffer from a mental health-related issue in the workplace, yet the subject is still taboo in many businesses; with just 16% of employees feeling they can openly discuss a mental health issue with their employer. 
Like a physical first aider, the MHFA’s are available to offer crucial initial support to employees and can help guide them towards further support if needed.
MHFA provides in-house training and consultancy to organisations of all shapes and sizes. Through working with over 20,000 employers, MHFA know that each organisation’s culture is unique, and the key to maintaining a mentally healthy workplace is understanding the people within it.
MHFA offers a range of evidence-based face to face and digital learning, from awareness-raising to skill development. Their courses are designed to empower people to notice signs of mental ill-health and encourage them to break down barriers, listen in a non-judgemental way, and signpost to support for recovery.
Stephen Godwin, health and safety manager said “Unlike a physical injury, mental ill-health can be hidden, ignored or simply not recognised. The MHFA course has given us the tools and training to offer initial help within the workplace. All employees will have access to the support of an MHFA.”
SBS firmly believe in preserving positive self-wellbeing in the workplace and hope that the introduction of MHFAs will encourage staff members to speak out should they be suffering in silence.
