Updated May 2025
The HSE has issued guidance to urge employers to consider the mental health needs of their workforce. It is suggesting that as part of an ‘employers first aid needs assessment’ an employer should consider having a staff member trained to identify mental health issues so they are able to support someone who might be experiencing a mental health issue.
We couldn’t agree more. According to a 2017 report from Deloitte, the facts about workplace mental health are shocking:
Mental Health in the UK Workplace Facts
- Poor mental health costs UK employers £33bn–£42bn each year.
- 7.7% of all sickness absence is mental health related and is increasing each year
- For adults over the age of 16, roughly 1 in 6 people met the criteria for a common mental disorder in 2014
- The average ROI (return on investment) of workplace mental health interventions is over 4:1, by reducing absence and increasing employee engagement.
It is now recommended that employers consider ways to support good mental health in the workplace, such as:
- Providing information or training for managers and employees,
- Employing occupational health professionals,
- Appointing mental health trained first aiders
- Implementing employee support programmes.
Training in mental health first aid
One of the most cost-effective ways to improve mental health in the workplace is to train team members in mental health first aid. Mental health first aid courses teach delegates how to recognise warning signs of mental ill-health and help them to develop the skills and confidence to approach and support someone while keeping themselves safe.
Want to learn more about Mental Health First Aid?
The First Aid Training Co-operative runs a suite of private first aid courses that can be delivered at your choice of venue, at a time and date to suit you. We’ll come to you and tailor your course to suit your specific situation, based on one of the core course types that we have in our portfolio. We now have a range of courses available for those looking to become Mental Health First Responders in the workplace, raise awareness of mental health amongst their staff plus specialist mental health training for outdoor professionals. Check out our mental health first aid course suite.
FREE Online Mental Health course for employers.
Not ready to signup for a course or need more time to consider? Sign up for our FREE Mental Health First Aid online course for Employers.
More links and resources
See further information on managing workplace stress and mental health issues from the HSE
The Mental Health Foundation website has lots of resources, events and guidance on mental health.
