Middlesex Cricket and its charitable arm Middlesex in the Community (MITC) has trained 23 members of staff in first aid for mental health.
The employees, from the Lord’s office, Finchley Indoor School, the professional playing and coaching staff and members of the Middlesex Board, received training in how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health issues in others.
Middlesex Cricket and MITC said that just as physical first aid prepares people to manage medical emergencies until professional help arrives, its staff are now equipped to offer a safety net for anyone within its community who may be experiencing an emotional or psychological crisis.
The course also ensured that staff can recognise and reduce the stigma associated with mental health, which could leave individuals afraid to seek the help they need due to fear of judgement or discrimination.
Middlesex Cricket and MITC stated that following the training, staff are working to remove the outdated notion and create an accepting environment across cricket in Middlesex which they hope will empower individuals to talk openly about mental health and seek any support needed without fear.
The organisation also hosts a mental health and wellbeing web page which includes details of support services and relevant information.