May marks Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May), with a theme on community. A recent course led by Ross Lockett of the Association of Trainers (ASOT) brought into focus the role of mental health first aiders (MHFAs) in coach and bus.
Delivered as part of Driver CPC, the sessions tackle the growing need for mental health support in the industry. Despite this, Mr Lockett says such support is still lacking.
The course explores why mental health conditions develop and how MHFAs can spot signs of ill health and provide advice and practical support. It aims to change the way attendees think about mental health, understand first aid action plans, and act on them to implement a positive workplace culture.
With mental health issues costing the English economy £105.2 billion annually, Mr Lockett urges companies to be proactive. “Even simple steps, like drinking more water and seeking sunlight, can make a difference.”
Driver and attendee Mark Smith endorses the training course. “Having suffered with mental health for a number of years I was sceptical, but willing to go and participate,” he says. “What a good thing I did by doing so. The delivery was by Mr Lockett in a very knowledgeable, professional and sensitive way to us all. I learnt a lot about not only how to deal with mental health in the workplace but even about myself.
“For the group of us, the course was presented in a way that we all felt comfortable to open up on our experiences, share our thoughts, and feed back to others. The whole day was an eye-opening experience, and I highly recommend anybody to attend.”
