​​​

The work done by SWASFT (South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust) can be challenging and emotionally demanding. We have been working closely with the SWASFT Staying Well Hub to help strengthen the well-being support that is available to SWASFT personnel. 

​

Funds secured by South Western Ambulance Charity from NHS Charities Together have supported two staff members, Sophie Morgan (a Freedom To Speak Up Guardian) and Colleen Lea (Well-being Project Coordinator), to become qualified as Suicide First Aid (SFA) Instructors. In addition, Emily Bibby (Well-being Supporter) has been funded to become a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and  Sarah Yorath (Staying Well Hub Adminstrator) has been able to qualify to deliver Mental Health Skills for Managers courses. ​This has enabled the team to expand the delivery of training from a mental health perspective, across SWASFT.

​​

This initiative strengthens SWASFT's in-house support and reinforces the commitment to creating a workplace where discussions around mental health and suicide are met with empathy, hope and practical help, not judgement or silence. 

 

Suicide First Aid Training

​

The SFA programme will help to build confidence and skills in recognising the signs of suicide and starting conversations around suicide. It will be offered to staff as a half day and a full day course.

 

The SFA half day course provides the essential knowledge needed to effectively recognise warning signs, start a conversation and connect someone to the right support. It will help someone to more safely intervene in situations where someone may be contemplating suicide. 

​

The SFA full day course provides both theory and practical skills for effective intervention in situations where someone may be contemplating suicide. ​​

​   

Mental Health First Aid Training

 

Just as first aid equips people to help with physical injuries, Mental Health First Aid empowers them to support those experiencing mental health challenges. It's an essential skill for promoting overall well-being and creating a supportive environment.  

​

Mental Health First Aiders offer initial support, reassurance, and guidance to colleagues who may be struggling, helping them access professional help and resources.  

​

The Mental Health Skills for Managers course enables managers to have meaningful and effective conversations with their teams about their mental health and well-being, for them to thrive at work.  This course builds on managers experience and provides structure around the conversations they will already be having.

​

Grant from NHS Charities Together

​

This initiative has been funded by a grant from NHS Charities Together's Covid Appeal Fund. The aim was to enable long-term health recovery of NHS staff, volunteers, patients and communities. We are very grateful for their support.

​

​

​​

​

​