Optalis’ first Mental Health First Aider was introduced in 2018 with the role aiming to encourage and empower employees to access mental health support, for a faster recovery.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, the organisation will be introducing an additional four Mental Health First Aiders and two Mental Health First Aider Champions as part of the Mindful Employer Charter and their vision to be committed to the wellbeing of their workforce.
Mental Health First Aiders are trained by Mental Health England and teach the individual to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis. They learn how to recognise the warning signs of mental ill health and develop the skills and confidence to approach and support someone.
Optalis provide a range of adult social care services in Wokingham, Windsor and Maidenhead and recognise that the workforce, currently at around 700, is their most valuable asset.
Donna Morgans, Mental Health First Aider at Optalis, and also Mindful Employer Champion, is looking forward to increasing their team of first aiders.
“Physical health is something most of us don’t have an issue talking about, however talking about mental health can be challenging. We at Optalis are working hard to break down those barriers and encourage people to talk openly about their mental health”
There will be other activities taking place at Optalis during Mental Health Awareness Week and the employee well-being programme will also be promoted during this time and includes an employee counselling service, well-being benefits and recommended apps that provide help and support.
For more information about the support offered at Optalis, for both employees and customers, visit www.optalis.org or call 0118 977 8600.