Building Confidence to Access Mental Health Support
About the organisation
To strengthen its approach, Abraham Moon & Sons established a team of trained Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs), providing colleagues with an accessible first point of contact and helping them navigate appropriate sources of support.
The Challenge
While support services were available, Abraham Moon & Sons recognised that colleagues were more likely to seek help if they could speak to someone they knew and trusted. Creating opportunities for early, supportive conversations was key to encouraging people to access the right support at the right time.
As the MHFA network developed, Mental Health First Aiders increasingly found themselves supporting colleagues experiencing complex or prolonged mental health challenges. Extended NHS waiting times meant some colleagues relied on workplace support for longer than anticipated, reinforcing the need to ensure MHFAs themselves were well supported in their role.
Approach in practice
Abraham Moon & Sons invested in a team of trained Mental Health First Aiders who are equipped to recognise the signs of poor mental health, provide initial support and signpost colleagues to appropriate professional services and self-help resources.
To strengthen the effectiveness of the network, the organisation provides ongoing training and works with external organisations to expand the knowledge and confidence of its Mental Health First Aiders. Clear guidance has also been established around confidentiality, safeguarding and escalation pathways, helping colleagues feel confident that conversations will be managed appropriately and sensitively.
Recognising that supporting others can be emotionally demanding, Abraham Moon &; Sons has also introduced measures to support the wellbeing of its Mental Health First Aiders. Monthly debrief sessions, a dedicated WhatsApp group and an annual MHFA away day provide opportunities to reflect, share experiences, learn from one another and access peer support.
Mental Health First Aiders are encouraged to maintain healthy boundaries by agreeing their own availability, recognising their limits and taking breaks from the role when needed. This helps them continue providing effective support while protecting their own wellbeing.
Impact and learning
By investing in both its Mental Health First Aiders and the support available to them, Abraham Moon & Sons has built greater confidence in its internal mental health support network.
More colleagues are now coming forward to discuss sensitive issues that may previously have gone unspoken, while ongoing awareness activities have helped reduce stigma surrounding mental health. Mental Health First Aiders also report feeling better equipped and more confident to support colleagues, knowing they have access to training, guidance and peer support themselves.
Key takeaway for other employers
Creating an effective workplace mental health support network requires more than simply appointing Mental Health First Aiders. Providing ongoing training, clear governance, regular supervision and opportunities for peer support helps build confidence in the service, encourages colleagues to seek help earlier and ensures those providing support are able to do so sustainably.