Horwich Farrelly appoints mental health ‘first aiders’ from across firm

Insurance specialist Horwich Farrelly has become one of the first UK law firms to appoint mental health ‘first aiders’ for the promotion of good mental health at work.

The firm has appointed 19 mental health first aiders across its six offices, with appointees ranging from apprentices to partners of the firm. The first aiders are trained and accredited to provide initial support through non-judgmental listening and guidance, as well as to spot the early signs of mental ill health. Specialist training was provided by Rethink Mental Illness, a charity providing support to around 60,000 people across England affected by mental illness. The organisation provides expert, accredited advice and information on everything from treatment and care, to benefits and employment rights.

Thomas Reynard, Horwich Farrelly’s chief operating officer, who also took part in the training said: “We all acknowledge that in the event someone suffers a minor injury in a workplace environment that a trained first aider will be on hand to offer help. However, if for example you’re feeling depressed or anxious, whether work-related or not, it might not be immediately obvious who you can to turn to for support. We believe that employers have a responsibility to promote wellbeing in the workplace and to encourage openness around mental health issues. The appointment of our 19 mental health first aiders is evidence of our commitment to cultivating a positive working environment that nurtures our people, and supports them throughout their career with all aspects of their wellbeing.”

James Fletcher of Rethink Mental Illness commented: “It is encouraging to see companies like Horwich Farrelly investing in initiatives that aim to promote good mental health in the workplace. We spend so much time at work that it’s important for employers to recognise their role in supporting staff and offering them different ways to ask for help, when they need it.”