Organisations at risk of outdated first aid approaches

Mental Health must be a consideration

The Head of Education and Commercial Training at St John Ambulance Lisa Sharman, said:

“Workplaces that do not upgrade their approach to first aid to incorporate mental health first aid, and a focus on mental wellbeing, are in significant danger of failing to provide holistic care for their employees. First aid – both physical and mental – is a core component of employee wellbeing – and in 2025, it demands a more sophisticated approach from businesses.”

Mental health first aid focuses on identifying, understanding, and responding to signs of mental health issues or crises, providing initial support and guidance to professional help if needed. Mental wellbeing is about proactively maintaining good mental health through practices like stress management, resilience building, and creating a supportive environment.

Mental and physical health are intertwined. With workplaces changing since the pandemic, health requirements are evolving, and people’s expectations of their employer have shifted.

“A holistic workplace first aid strategy draws on physical health interventions, mental health support, preventative training, and integrated wellness programmes. Investing in holistic health approaches, organisations can reduce incidents and build more resilient, productive teams.”

With workplace illness a rapidly growing economic cost for England employers. Of the £21.6 billion cost to business during 2022-2023, £7.1 billion was lost to workplace injury and more than twice that amount to ill health.

Full details of our mental health training courses offered are available here, alternatively contact us for more details on 01462 892021 or via email at hello@safety360.uk