Premier Software is prioritising staff wellbeing by training team members in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA).

Following a turbulent few years, many people are feeling the effects of repeated lockdowns and isolation, leading to increased levels of stress and anxiety.

The two day MHFA course, held by St John’s Ambulance, aims to equip leaders with the knowledge to identify peers who require support, and have the confidence to offer assistance and guidance where required.

Helena Cottrill, chief marketing officer, and Kimberley Flint, office manager for Premier Software, attended the course in Birmingham on 8th-9th March. Upon completion, both were awarded the Level 3 Adult Mental Health: Workplace First Aider qualification.

“I am so pleased to have been given the opportunity to attend Mental Health First Aider training,” says Helena. “It means a lot to work for a company who recognise the importance of supporting their staff.”

“There has never been a more important time to look after our mental wellbeing. By completing the course, I now feel better equipped with the skills to respond to colleagues who need assistance, and offer reassurance moving forward.”

“I found the Mental Health First Aider training very insightful,” Kimberley adds. “I am certain that the skills and knowledge we gained during the course will prove very useful.”

The MHFA training is in accompaniment to the current Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in place to support Premier’s workforce. Through the EAP, staff have free and confidential access to a GP on demand, plus an employee assistance service, including access to face-to-face counselling and online cognitive behavioural therapy.