New Mental Health First Aid accreditations for HCE

Another Howard Civil Engineering team member has successfully completed their Mental Health First Aider certificate and is now qualified to provide support and advice for mental health both in our offices and on-site.

HR and payroll manager Emma Wallbank (right) embarked on a two-day course in Leeds with HR Training last week in order to enhance Howard Civil Engineering’s support of our employees’ mental wellbeing.

‘I am really glad to be able to provide greater mental health support for our workforce,’ said Emma. ‘The company is certainly keen for more team members to receive mental health training and encourage awareness and greater understanding of mental health across the business. In the current climate, it is more important than ever to look after our collective mental health and wellbeing.’

Emma joins health and safety advisor Wanda Curtis (left), who completed her MHFA accreditation last February.

Mental health in the construction industry has been an increasingly hot topic, with 57% of construction workers reporting poor mental health in a study published by Construction News in 2018. Howard Civil Engineering are committed to increasing awareness of poor mental health, including educating our team members on the warning signs and encouraging team members to discuss mental health openly in the workplace.

‘We are raising awareness of the support available to employees and the response so far has been very positive,’ commented Wanda. ‘In addition to assisting employees who approach us directly, we are also gathering information on how we can build on our positive work culture even further to alleviate some of the stressors faced in the workplace.’

If you are experiencing poor mental health or have concerns about a colleague’s mental health and would like further advice, please contact any of Howard Civil Engineering’s Mental Health First Aiders who will be able to help privately and sympathetically.