INTERSERVE Construction has announced it has deployed 150 mental health first aiders to support colleagues.
With Covid-19 potentially heightening stress, anxiety and social isolation, Interserve’s mental health first aiders are using their skills to help colleagues access appropriate support, both in and outside of the workplace.
Neil Rosiak, HSE director at Interserve Construction said, “One in four people are affected by a mental health condition at some point in their lives and nearly two-thirds of people with a known mental disorder never seek help from a health professional. At Interserve Construction we want to create a safe and healthy environment where people can access the help and support they need and through our network of 150 Mental Health First Aiders we help colleagues with mental health concerns, so they have a positive experience at work. People in need shouldn’t be ashamed or embarrassed to talk about any mental health concerns especially during Mental Health Awareness Week.”
Interserve Group has also rolled out the Thrive application to all of its colleagues in the UK and Ireland, who can download it for free. The app, provided by AXA PPP healthcare, helps users boost mental wellbeing and manage their mood with techniques including cognitive behavioural therapy. Interserve also has a mental health support service on its MyInterserve online portal.
Emma Millward, regional marketing manager at Interserve Construction’s north west offices commented, “I volunteered to become a mental health first aider because I am passionate about helping people and had a desire to break the stigma surrounding mental health. A close family member gave me an analogy comparing taking a tablet for depression to using a crutch when you break a leg, this really put it into perspective for me. It also seemed natural for me to take on the role as a number of colleagues and customers confide in me as they say that I am great listener.”
