MindKind

What is the impact of poor mental health in the workplace?

Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental illness each year. In 2016, 15.8 million UK work days were lost due to mental illness. 

The largest causes of sickness absence for our county’s workforce is depression, stress, and anxiety. Mental illness costs UK businesses around £35 billion every year, this equates to £10.6 billion lost to sickness absence, £21.2 billion in reduced productivity, and £3.1 billion in substituting staff members who vacate their roles due to mental illness.

How effective are the Mental Health First Aid courses?

Independent research and evaluation shows that taking part in a MHFA course raises awareness of mental illnesses, encourages early intervention to aid recovery, increases confidence in dealing with mental illnesses and reduces stigma.

Why become a Mental Health First Aid First Aider?

Becoming a Mental Health First Aid First Aider improves and increases mental health awareness across society and gives delegates the skills necessary to have a non-judgmental conversation, recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues and effectively guide a person towards the right mental health support.

Delegates will also gain an in depth understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect wellbeing, as well as practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental illness, and the confidence to step in, reassure and support a person in distress.

Becoming a Mental Health First Aider also enhances your interpersonal skills, such as non-judgemental listening, and will equip you with the knowledge to help someone recover their health by guiding them to further support - whether that’s self-help resources, through workplace support, the NHS, or a mix.

Do I need prior knowledge of mental health to attend the two-day course?

No, prior knowledge is not required, but an interest in the subject is strongly advisable.

What resources will I receive on the courses?

All delegates receive a MHFA manual, workbook, and advice card. As well as link to other useful resources on the MindKind intranet pages. 

Who issues the certification and when can I expect to receive it?

Mental Health First Aid England issue the certificates and delegates can expect to receive their certificate about one month after attending the course. Please contact mhfasupport@staffordshire.gov.uk if you do not receive your certificate.

What happens if I lose or require a replacement certificate?

Delegates can request a replacement certificate by contacting MHFA England directly on info@mhfaengland.org

How long are the certificates valid for, will I need to take a refresher?

Currently there is no need to take a refresher course. We will update you if/when this changes.