Workplace Report (January 2019)

Health & safety news

Mental health first aid guidance from IOSH


Volunteer Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) do not tackle the root causes of mental health issues and new business guidance cautions against over-reliance on them. 


Health and safety professionals’ body IOSH issued the new guidance following concerns about the use of employee volunteers to tackle mental health issues. 


IOSH-commissioned research by the University of Nottingham revealed “significant issues” with the way employers are implementing MHFA in workplaces (see Workplace Report, December 2018 page 16). 


“IOSH calls for a ‘prevention first’ approach incorporating MHFA as part of an organisation’s overall efforts to protect their workforce from mental health problems,” said head of advice and practice Duncan Spencer.


www.iosh.co.uk/News/Concerns-about-use-of-employee-volunteers-to-tackle-mental-health-issues-prompt-new-guidance.aspx

www.nottingham.ac.uk/news/pressreleases/2018/november/mental-health-first-aid.aspx


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