This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. 

At Apleona UK, the wellbeing of our employees is of paramount importance.

Angela Avey, our Environment, Health and Safety Manager is one of our Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) in the business. She explains why this role is important to her:

‘When Apleona asked for people to volunteer to become a MHFA in 2021 I didn’t think twice about putting my name forward. I was motivated by a number of factors including friends who have been signed off work due to mental health issues and colleagues who have confided in me when going through something difficult, as well as feeling a wider duty to my colleagues. 

My aim was to arm myself with the relevant knowledge and skills to be able to spot someone who is developing a mental health issue and intervene before it has the potential to escalate further. The MHFA training has equipped me with the skills and confidence to recognise common mental health issues,  I am not here to treat or diagnose any condition - instead, I am here to listen and offer guidance and support.

I’ve seen first-hand just how important it is to have someone there with a comforting word or two. However, some people aren’t as lucky as me. Therefore I am determined to give the same support and guidance to anyone who needs it, while encouraging others to consider becoming a MHFA. 

My final message would be, even if you think being a mental health first aider it isn’t for you – always remember – someone you meet could be fighting a battle you’re not aware of, so always be kind. It’s that simple.’