Mental Health First Aiders at SEP2
The role of Mental Health First Aiders has become increasingly important in today’s workplace and with complex mental health issues on the rise, organisations need to prioritise this aspect of employee support. SEP2 recognised the need to have trained individuals who can support our employees with their mental health, which is why we implemented Mental Health First Aiders scheme at SEP2.
Our Mental Health First Aiders undergo training by an approved MHFA England instructor and are awarded a certification from MHFA England upon completion. They are a compassionate and dedicated team, committed to creating a supportive environment for employees facing mental health challenges.
In this blog post, you will meet our Mental Health First Aiders, gain insight into what their role means to them and why promoting mental well-being at work is crucial.
Meet Our Mental Health First AidersÂ
Why Did You Decide to Become a Mental Health First Aider?
Tim: “I wanted to become a Mental Health First Aider to help others. As a Director I wanted to take the lead and show that helping others is very important at SEP2. I have had my own mental health challenges and the support I received at the time was great and I was really thankful. I wanted to give back, which is why I volunteered to complete the mental health first aid course.”
Natalie: “I believe in the profound importance of mental health and its impact on every aspect of our lives. By being trained as a Mental Health First Aider, I can aim to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, promote open conversations, and guide those in need towards appropriate professional help.”
Maya: “I wanted to join the team because I care deeply about mental well-being and have gathered a lot of experience and knowledge in this area. Through studying psychology and various therapies, as well as attending counselling and therapy myself, I’ve gained a solid understanding of the different ways mental health can affect us. I believe my insights and personal experiences make me a valuable addition to the SEP2 MHFA team.”
Fabian: “I hold the encouragement and support of good mental health dear to me and believe there will always be circumstances, due to a variety of reasons, that will affect people’s mental health negatively. I wanted to be in a position where I was able provide some form of support whether its talking, signposting, or offering an ear. I was keen to have the relevant training to provide support that’s impactful.”
Why is Your Role Important to You?
Natalie: “This role not only allows me to support others effectively but also enriches my understanding of mental health, fostering a more compassionate workplace.”
Fabian: “Listening to people’s stories has encouraged empathy in me. Anyone living with a mental health condition or whose mental health has been impacted by life experiences deserves the opportunity to be heard, to find support and encouragement should they look for it.”
Maya: “Mental health is something I’m truly passionate about. I’ve learned so much from past experiences, having faced my own challenges and witnessing others go through theirs. Because of this, I feel I can genuinely empathise with anyone who might reach out for support.”
How Does SEP2 Support Employee’s Mental Well-Being?
Tim: “SEP2 is always looking at ways to support our peoples’ mental health. We want to ensure that we have a place of work that provides a positive experience for everyone and that everyone has the support and training to enjoy fulfilling their role at SEP2.”
Maya: “SEP2 have supported numerous mental health and neurodivergence awareness courses for staff who are interested in educating themselves and want to support those struggling with these invisible troubles. With my own mental health struggles, I’ve found SEP2 consistently accommodating, supportive, and validating for me, especially compared to other environments I have worked in. I know that at SEP2, there is a supportive environment to both heal and grow.”
Fabian: “The hybrid working model has been a great step in the direction of supporting people’s mental health. This allows for a balance between being present in the office, allowing for learning opportunities, camaraderie, and general socialising amongst the different teams at SEP2. The opportunity to work from home allows for greater individual focus on tasks, a social battery reset (for the introverts), and comfort for working in a familiar environment.”
Natalie: “SEP2 have invested in Mental Health First Aid training for colleagues from a variety of departments and locations within SEP2. We have also teamed up with Medicash to offer our employees not just the Employee Assistance Programme but a whole suite of wellbeing tools including exercise, mindfulness, breathwork and meditation – to name a few!”
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Each employee at SEP2 has access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), an independent, free, and confidential service made to support anyone going through a hard time. The EAP service provides practice advice and emotional support for work or personal issues that may impact their wellbeing. Their fully trained counsellors are available 365 days a year, 24/7.
In addition to our Mental Health First Aiders and the EAP scheme, SEP2 recognises the significance of community in positively impacting employees’ mental health. Our employees are encouraged to start initiatives within our People Groups, such as Women in SEP2, to create safe spaces within SEP2, providing an opportunity for individuals to connect over shared interests and express themselves.Â
At SEP2, we take pride in having certified Mental Health First Aiders who are dedicated to supporting their colleagues. We believe mental well-being is essential in the workplace, and as part of our commitment to doing good, we strive to improve this commitment as our company continues to grow. Â
