There has been strong demand for free mental health first aid training among small businesses in Wiltshire say training providers, with only a few places left.

The Workplace Wellbeing Support Programme, delivered by local training providers including My White Dog on behalf of Wiltshire Mind, is aimed at business owners and employees who want to create a mentally healthy workplace.

The training sessions, funded by Wiltshire Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, are being run online and face to face and include half day and full day courses. There is also a two-day course providing more in-depth knowledge and skills, training people to become certified workplace mental health first aiders.

The courses teach employers how to spot the signs of poor mental health and signpost employees towards sources of professional help. They are aimed at small business owners, HR managers and others who want to develop the skills and confidence to support those who may be experiencing poor mental health.

Paula Power, founder of Malmesbury-based My White Dog who is an instructor member of Mental Health First Aid England, said:

“Demand for places on our free mental health training courses has been high with only a few places left. Take up has exceeded our expectations and reflects the growing importance that Wiltshire businesses place on workplace wellbeing.

“For every £1 spent on supporting the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce, employers get on average about £4.70 back in increased productivity, according to recent research by Deloitte.

“So workplace wellbeing is good for business and your bottom line - but early intervention is key. If you want to learn how to support your staff to thrive and boost business performance, or develop your own mental resilience, sign up for one of our free courses today.”

For more information about the free mental health awareness courses phone Paula on 07944 206366, email paula@mywhitedog.com or visit MyWhiteDog.com