Building a culture of care: Celebrating our latest Mental Health First Aiders.

Thirteen colleagues at Tower Hamlets GP Care Group are now Mental Health First Aiders – underlining the organisation's commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing, both within the organisation and for residents.

The two-day training course brought together colleagues from across the organisation, including the 0-19 Service in Waltham Forest, Tower Hamlets Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) and Tower Hamlets 0-5 Service.

Through practical learning and shared experiences, participants explored how to recognise signs of poor mental health, approach sensitive conversations and help others access appropriate support.  

For Yasmin Begum, Training Administrator for the 0-5 Service in Tower Hamlets, the experience offered a new perspective on supporting others.

Yasmin said: "The training gave me a new outlook on mental health. I enjoyed learning alongside colleagues from different teams, and I now feel much more confident recognising when someone may be struggling and knowing how to offer support."

While the training helps colleagues support one another, the skills gained can also make a difference when working directly with patients and families.

Musa Lule, from the Parent-Baby Emotional Wellbeing (PBEW) Service in Waltham Forest, said: "The training was extremely valuable and relevant to my role within perinatal mental health. As one of the first points of contact for families, I regularly have conversations with parents that can reveal mental health concerns. The course strengthened my confidence in recognising warning signs, having sensitive conversations and ensuring families receive timely specialist support. These skills will help me provide more effective care for mothers and infants."

Sarah Hun, Head of People Development at the Care Group, who led the course, said: "It’s been brilliant to see colleagues come together for our first dedicated mental health first aid course. I’m incredibly proud that we now have 13 new MHFAiders, joining our growing network of support.

"Mental health first aid is about more than completing a course - it’s about creating a culture where people notice when someone might be struggling, feel confident to start a conversation, listen without judgement and help them find support.

"Every new MHFAider strengthens that culture, and I’m excited to see the difference this group will make."

Are you looking to strengthen mental health awareness and support within your organisation? Care Group Training offers Adult Mental Health First Aid courses designed to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to recognise signs of poor mental health, offer initial support and guide others towards appropriate help.

Explore our Mental Health First Aid training and book a course for your organisation.

‍