Recent statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reveal a sharp increase in mental health-related absences across UK workplaces, putting renewed focus on the importance of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Trainer training.

Mental health absences on the rise

According to the HSE's latest report, stress, depression, and anxiety accounted for 17.9 million working days lost in 2023 — a 15% rise compared to the previous year. This represents the leading cause of long-term workplace absence, with an estimated 1 in 6 workers experiencing a mental health problem in any given week.

These figures mirror NHS findings that workplace stress-related issues now contribute significantly to the overall burden of mental illness, further straining employee health and organisational productivity.

Industry experts emphasise early intervention

"The data clearly indicates a growing gap in workplace mental health support. Equipping staff with the skills to identify and respond to mental health challenges early is critical," said a mental health training specialist.

MHFA training has been proven to improve awareness and reduce stigma, encouraging early conversations and timely support. However, the shortage of qualified MHFA Trainers limits the reach of these programmes.

Addressing the gap with MHFA Trainer courses

To combat this shortfall, training providers like Abertay Training have expanded access to the Mental Health First Aid Trainer course, designed to enable organisations to internally deliver MHFA programmes.

  • Course format: Available via live Zoom or face-to-face across 10+ UK venues including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Belfast.
  • Cost: £450 + VAT
  • Objective: To equip delegates with the skills to train others in MHFA, amplifying workplace mental health support capacity.

Abertay Training's course aims to empower organisations to embed mental health awareness as part of their safety culture, a vital step given the HSE’s findings that effective mental health interventions can reduce absenteeism and improve employee well-being.

Looking ahead: embedding mental health awareness

The UK's Health and Safety at Work Act, alongside the Equality Act 2010, places a duty on employers to safeguard employees’ mental as well as physical health. Experts argue that expanding the pool of MHFA Trainers directly supports compliance and enhances workplace resilience.

As mental health-related absences continue to rise, the demand for qualified trainers able to cascade this vital knowledge grows. Investing in Mental Health First Aid Trainer training is increasingly seen as a proactive strategy to foster healthier, more supportive working environments.

For employers and health and safety professionals seeking to address these challenges, Abertay Training provides comprehensive Mental Health First Aid Trainer courses designed to meet current industry needs. More information is available at Abertay Training's course page.