The Midcounties Co-operative is working with Warwickshire charity Springfield Mind to deliver mental health first aid training for senior colleagues.
The collaboration will enable the society to provide training for all operational managers, executives, leadership team ambassadors and members of the human resources team.
Midcounties colleagues will undertake half-day sessions designed to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace and promote a wider understanding of mental health and some of the most common mental health issues.
In addition to getting advice on how to support someone who may be experiencing mental health problems, colleagues will also receive guidance on how to look after their own mental health.
The training is aimed at ensuring that all colleagues feel able to speak openly about their issues in the workplace without fear of being alienated or discriminated against.
The society intends to continue to work with Springfield Mind to deliver similar training more widely over the next three years.
Maria Fennell, chief executive from Springfield Mind, said: “There is still so much more to be done to reduce stigma around mental health in the workplace, and it’s encouraging to see groups like the Midcounties Co-operative embracing this responsibility.
“The training session we ran was incredibly well attended, and we hope those who attended will leave with a greater awareness of mental health issues, and the huge difference they can make to their colleague’s lives.”
The Midcounties Co-operative has had a long relationship with the Springfield Mind, with two of its senior colleagues currently serving as trustees of the charity.
Rebekah Brain, society engagement manager at the Midcounties Co-operative, said: “The wellbeing of our colleagues is of paramount importance to us, and we want to make sure anyone suffering from mental health issues feels they have someone to can reach out to.
“We look forward to continuing our work with Mind in the future to ensure that we can encourage important conversations about mental health amongst the Midcounties Co-operative colleagues and members.”
