Introduce and manage mental health first-aiders in your organisation

Key points

  • Mental health first-aiders are employees who have received training that enables them to recognise the signs that a colleague may be experiencing mental ill health and to offer initial support.
  • Mental health first-aiders can promote good mental health across the organisation, for example via a mental wellbeing campaign, and take steps to reduce the stigma that is associated with mental health issues.
  • A mental health first-aid programme's success can depend on how it is promoted to the workforce. Employers should communicate the purpose of mental health first-aiders and their identities.
  • MHFA England, which provides certified training on mental health first-aid, encourages employers to aim for a ratio of one first-aider for every 10 employees.

XpertHR resources