Experienced mental health first aid instructor Jennifer Neil has launched a mental health training and consultancy business.
In a bid to help more people and businesses tackle the issues that can lead to poor mental health, Jennifer (pictured) is encouraging early intervention to better manage the impact of health decline.
The ex-prison officer and mental health peer support worker is offering mental health and wellbeing training and consultancy services after seeing the rising demand for preventative action in this sphere.
A recent report from Deloitte estimated that the poor mental health of employees cost UK employers £42bn each year. This consisted of an absences cost of £7bn, turnover loss of £9bn and presenteeism accounting for a staggering £29bn. Many of the businesses surveyed did not have a clear strategy or wellbeing plan in place.
Jennifer said: “It’s well accepted that there needs to be more focus on mental health and wellbeing in a working environment, but this should go much further than offering employees reference points or the number for a helpline. Conversations around the subject remain taboo, and it can be extremely difficult for people to ask for help, especially if they feel it would negatively reflect on their ability to do their role.
“The very best employers are opening up discussions on these subjects and putting in place structured plans to support their team through the many different factors that impact our mental wellbeing. The island itself is struggling to support the effects of poor mental health, so the onus should be on employers as well as individuals to take preventative action when and wherever possible.”
