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