A Glasgow-headquartered engineering firm has introduced ten mental health first aiders to support staff.
The move by Edwin James Group has seen a range of employees be specially trained over an intensive two day course with St Johns Ambulance. The firm said that they come from a diverse range of locations and departments to ensure that employees have a choice of who to talk to.
It comes as part of a wider package of measures designed to support the mental and physical health of everyone within the firm. Other initiatives include training for all managers to ensure they are equipped to provide guidance and support, wellbeing workshops, webinars and an online training programme covering topics such as relaxation, meditation and managing stress.
Mark Longley, group corporate services director, said, “The pandemic has been very tough, not just for business but for us all as individuals. As a group, we want to make sure that our people can access the support they need.
“We work in an industry where safety is key and poor mental health or excessive stress can result in tiredness and a lack of concentration that can easily lead to accidents. Looking after mental health and managing stress is a vital part of ensuring that our staff are protected. First aiders are just one part of a whole package of measures that we’re introducing to encourage a positive mental health culture.”
