More Colleagues Qualify as Mental Health First Aiders

December 17, 2021

As part of A.F. Blakemore’s Wellbeing in the Workplace programme, the company is pleased to announce that several more AFB colleagues have qualified as mental health first aiders.

A mental health first aider is someone that any colleague can reach out to for confidential support and guidance if they are experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress.

Group HR & Strategy Director Ian Diment commented: “As a business, we recognise the importance of supporting the health and wellbeing of our colleagues, both mentally and physically.

“We want a mental health programme that engages, enables and supports staff at all levels.

“Congratulations to all our newly qualified mental health first aiders, who have all completed an internationally recognised training programme.”

The first aiders are based across different areas of the business to ensure that they are as accessible to colleagues as possible. 

If you feel you could benefit from a conversation with a mental health first aider, please reach out. 
 

What is the role of a mental health first aider?

A mental health first aider is someone you can reach out to for confidential support and guidance if you (or someone close to you) are experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress.

Mental health first aiders can also provide early intervention and support if you have any concerns about how you are feeling and the impact this is having on your mental health and wellbeing.

Initially, they may offer a one-to-one conversation to enable you to discuss and share your thoughts and feelings or be able to signpost you to appropriate support services.

Mental health first aiders are not trained to be therapists or psychiatrists, but they can offer impartial support through non-judgemental listening and guidance. 
 

Who are the new mental health first aiders and how do I contact them?

The latest colleagues to qualify as mental health first aiders are as follows: 

Steve Adams – Logistics (Bedford)
Karen Crutchley – Retail (field)
Hannah Dudley – Retail (Chipping Sodbury)
Cheryl Norman – Trading
Mollie Peachey – Retail (Llanischen Fach)
Claudette Robotham – Retail (Willenhall)
Kulwant Singh – Logistics (Willenhall)
Mandie Taylor – Payroll (Talbot Green)
Cael Williams – Retail (Bettws)

Check out the news area on MyHR for their contact details. Posters to promote the mental health first aiders are also being issued across the business. 

The following colleagues also qualified as mental health first aiders earlier this year and are available to be contacted:  

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