Insurance industry law firm Horwich Farrelly has appointed 19 mental health first aiders to promote good mental health at work across its six offices.
The initiative, which it launched to coincide with World Mental Health Day (Tuesday 10 October), saw the firm recruit 19 staff from across the business to act as mental health first aiders. They have been trained by charity Rethink Mental Illness to spot the early signs and symptoms of mental ill health, and to encourage individuals to access appropriate support or self-help.
Horwich Farrelly is also holding its first Mental Health Week in which it is are encouraging its 750 employees to take small steps to boost their wellbeing. The law firm is hosting a coffee morning, as well as suggesting its employees go for a brisk walk at lunchtime or swap social media for a good book.
The law firm is also hoping to raise £15,000 for Rethink Mental Illness by organising various events including a five-a-side football tournament and a festive Santa dash.
Thomas Reynard, chief operating officer at Horwich Farrelly, who took part in the training, said: “We all acknowledge that in the event someone suffers a minor injury in a workplace environment that a trained first aider will be on hand to offer help. However, if, for example, [someone is] feeling depressed or anxious, whether work-related or not, it might not be immediately obvious who [they] can to turn to for support.
“We believe that employers have a responsibility to promote wellbeing in the workplace and to encourage openness around mental health issues. The appointment of our 19 mental health first aiders is evidence of our commitment to cultivating a positive working environment that nurtures our people, and supports them throughout their career with all aspects of their wellbeing.”