Hull Trains is set to increase its number of internal Mental Health First Aiders following a positive rollout of the scheme earlier this year.
This week is World Mental Health Day and the theme this year is ‘mental health is a universal right’. The evidence-based training gives people skills to spot the signs of poor mental health, the confidence to start a conversation and the knowledge to signpost appropriate support.
Hull Trains has already trained seven colleagues to become Mental Health First Aiders, and a further 15 are set to receive the training.
Deborah Birch, Head of HR at Hull Trains, explained: “Our employees are the heart of our organisation, and their wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us. By increasing the number of trained Mental Health First Aiders, we are demonstrating our commitment to creating a supportive and compassionate work environment. We want our colleagues to know that help is readily available if and when they feel they may need it.”
The training has been delivered to colleagues across all roles in the company, including each of the line managers.
The expansion of the Mental Health First Aider programme aligns with Hull Trains ongoing efforts to foster a workplace culture that prioritises colleague wellbeing, destigmatises mental health issues and encourages open communications.
The operator remains dedicated to ensuring that all colleagues have the necessary resources and support to maintain their mental well-being through their employee assistant programme which is available to all staff 24/7.
Hull trains MD Martijn Gilbert added: “It’s been great to see how positively our team has responded to the adoption of Mental Health First Aiders. Although there are lots of avenues available to provide support for our colleagues, and the customers they serve, knowing we have colleagues on the ground who are trained to spot signs of potential mental health matters and can signpost non-invasive ways of help will be key to ensuring our whole team feel comfortable to speak out if needed and knowing they have someone to turn to.”
