Why mental health first aid training is essential for businesses

People talking around an office desk

As a business owner or manager, you are responsible for the wellbeing of your employees. This includes not just their physical health, but also their mental health. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 6 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem at any given time – this means that chances are, some of your employees may be struggling with their mental health right now. The good news is that you can help them by providing mental health first aid training.

Group of people attending a training conference

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a training programme that teaches people how to identify, understand and help someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem.

Just like traditional first aid, MHFA teaches you how to provide initial support before professional help is available. The training covers a range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, psychosis and substance misuse.

Click here for more information on Step One Charity’s BeWell@StepOne Mental Health First Aid courses.

Why is MHFA training important for businesses?

It helps to reduce stigma

Many people are still reluctant to talk about their mental health due to fear of being stigmatised. Mental Health First Aid training can help to reduce this stigma by creating a supportive workplace culture where mental health is seen as a priority.

It improves productivity

Employees who are struggling with their mental health are likely to be less productive and take more sick days. By providing MHFA training, you can help to identify and support these employees, which can improve their wellbeing and productivity.

It saves lives

Mental health problems can be just as serious as physical health problems. In some cases, early intervention can mean the difference between life and death. MHFA training can help you to identify and support someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

How to book MHFA training for your business

Step One Charity’s BeWell for Business programme offers MHFA training courses for businesses across Devon. Two-day, one-day and half-day paid courses are available and delivered by our certified trainers.

Our 2023 2-day course dates are as follows:

13th & 14th June 2023 

21st & 22nd September 2023 

28th & 29th November 2023 

£95 per person including  2 days of training, assessment and certification

By providing this training, you can help to reduce stigma, improve productivity and even save lives. So why wait? Book your MHFA training today and make a real difference to your workplace culture.

Simply visit our BeWell for Business page and fill out the enquiry form. One of our course trainers will be in touch to confirm your booking, provide more information and answer any questions. For anything else, please email training@steponecharity.co.uk.

Related articles

Colleagues enjoying team building day

A sneak peek into our Team Building Day

Step One recently hosted team-building days, which involved an escape room and wellbeing sessions. Thanks to the support of Devon Community Foundation, we were given the opportunity to practice what we preach, taking time to bond as a team, prioritise our wellbeing and relax.
Graphic with "5 minutes with our Trustees"

5 Minutes With Our Trustees

We're very excited to introduce the new Trustees joining Step One Charity. Today we're sharing a bit about each of them in a "5 minutes with..." interview. Please continue reading to find out more about the people helping guide our charity and further our mission.
Graphic with quote reading: “You met me at one of the most difficult times and seeing the difference you’ve made is amazing [...] Please keep doing what you do. You change lives.”

Celebrating 15 years of Larry, Senior Recovery Practitioner

Larry is one of our longest-serving team members, who recently marked an incredible 15 years with Step One! In this Q&A Larry shares his journey, the highlights of his career to date, and what keeps him motivated to support others.

How you can get involved with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

Join us this Mental Health Awareness Week for a whole host of activities and events throughout the week to help you connect with others and take care of your wellbeing.
40 Reasons to sign up to Exeter’s Great West Run 2025

40 Reasons to sign up to Exeter’s Great West Run 2025

By joining #TeamStepOne in The Great West Run, you'll not only challenge yourself physically by completing a half marathon or 10k but also contribute to helping support people with mental health challenges, learning disabilities, and neurodiversity across Devon.
Face illustrations with the text 'Stay connected this December'

Stay connected this December – BeWell@StepOne activities

December can be a busy and often overwhelming time of year. Our BeWell@StepOne service is designed to support local people across Devon and has a variety of activities and support groups to help you through the festive season.
OT Week 2024 (Photo of our OTs Lizzie, Lilly, Connor and Roy.

OT Week 2024: Wellbeing tips from our Occupational Therapy team

Occupational Therapy Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible work of our Occupational Therapists (OTs) and highlight the positive impact they have on people's lives at Cypress Hospital.
Granvue - 24 hour supported living

Granvue – A new chapter in supported living

Granvue has been an essential part of Step One’s journey for many years. Now, we're excited to add a new chapter to Granvue’s story as we officially transition it into a supported living house.
A Letter of hope

A letter of hope from BeWell@StepOne participants

Our Anxiety Peer Support Cafe attendees have kindly pieced together this welcome letter for anyone wishing to join one of our BeWell@StepOne services.
©️ Copyright 2024 – Step One. Registered Charity Number: 235434 Company Number 393477 in England. X Centre, Commercial Road, Exeter, EX2 4AD. Web Design by The Ambitions Agency