We’re proud to share a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to colleague wellbeing – we now have over 100 trained Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) supporting colleagues across our 56 care homes.
Growing our mental health support network
Since launching in 2019, we’ve steadily increased our MHFA team.
Our latest cohort of trained colleagues brings the total to 104 across the organisation.
Now, every one of our care homes has at least one MHFA, with some larger homes benefitting from up to four trained colleagues.
With four more training sessions scheduled over the next year, we’re set to welcome a further 64 MHFAs, strengthening our dedication to colleague mental health and wellbeing.
Alan Dalzell, Deputy Head of Behavioural Support and Mental Health, and MHFA Manager, reflected on the journey:
“Back in 2019, our very first group of six colleagues trained as MHFAs.
“Today, we celebrate surpassing the century mark.
“Some of those original team members are still with us, and I’d like to extend my deepest thanks for nearly six years of dedication to their colleagues. Their guidance and advice, have had a profound impact.”
Supporting over 1,300 colleagues
Since its introduction, the MHFA team has provided confidential support to over 1,300 colleagues, assisting with both work and personal challenges.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, their role was particularly vital - making almost 100 contacts per month, when the need for mental health support was at an all-time high.
Selina Wall, Managing Director of Exemplar Health Care, commented on this achievement:
“Having a trained MHFA in every home means there’s always someone to talk to, and we should never underestimate the difference this makes.
“I feel incredibly proud to be part of a team that cares not only for the people living in our homes, but also for each other.”
A workplace that cares
Looking out for our colleagues is at the heart of what we do.
Alongside our growing network of MHFAs, we offer a range of wellbeing support, including:
an online wellbeing centre
a 24/7 employee assistance programme with free counselling
money management tools.
At Exemplar Health Care, we believe that when we support each other, we all thrive.
If you’re looking for a workplace that prioritises wellbeing, values people, and makes a difference every day, we’d love to hear from you.
Learn more about colleague wellbeing support.
Explore care homes across England for adults with complex needs.
Get in touch to discuss a complex care placement for someone you support.
Explore rewarding roles with training, support, and chances to grow.
Reach out with questions about care placements, jobs, or general enquiries.