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Promoting positive wellbeing culture through our Mental Health First Aid training
At Mercury, we understand the importance of promoting a positive culture of mental health and wellbeing.
We have invested significantly in our Mental Health First Aid programme, which consists of two full days of intensive training. This course is available to all levels of staff and our subcontractors throughout Europe.
Almost 200 of our people have received this training throughout our locations, and we continue to drive engagement and accessibility to this programme, with Mental Health First Aid training now mandatory in some areas of our business.
Inviting open conversations around mental health, and promoting this vital topic throughout our projects is a priority. We have added a wellness segment to our weekly toolbox talks, to ensure that our key wellbeing messaging is communicated to as many people as possible, as we continue to strive towards making mental health conversations the norm in this industry. These initiatives empower us to work together in breaking the stigma surronding mental health.
We recently spoke to Anthony Tighe, an EHS Advisor, and a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA), who is based on one of our a data centre projects in Frankfurt, Germany.
You can read Anthony’s full interview below.
Tell us about your background and your role within Mercury.
“I am originally from Co. Leitrim, Ireland. I have worked in the construction industry for over 16 years, in countries such as the UK and Australia, and most recently here in Frankfurt in Germany, after joining Mercury as an EHS advisor in November 2021.
What made you decide to complete Mercury’s MHFA training programme?
“I decided to become a Mental Health First Aider, because unfortunately, like too many others, I have experienced the loss of friends and family through poor mental health. I signed up for the MHFA programme because I wanted to learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of somebody struggling with their mental health, and how best to pro-actively support the individual when they feel ready.”
What key learnings did you take away from this programme? How have these skills assisted you in your role on a daily basis?
“One of the key learnings I took from the course, is that people want to be heard and acknowledged with trust and respect – and that’s easy. Sometimes listening is all it takes.”
What has been your experience of being a MHFA so far, what are the positives and pressures?
“It has been of great use to me already! Just listening to people’s concerns and what bothers them is hugely helpful. The MHFA training course has given me a sense of reassurance that I am capable to digest and support individuals who are experiencing struggles. Listening with non-judgement to the individual requires patience and respect, while providing the necessary support routes, such as highlighting the accessibility of our Employee Assistance Programme, which is available to all Mercury employees, supply-chain members and their immediate family.”
Any advice for peers who may be interested in taking our MHFA training?
“I would advise colleagues who take part in MFHA training to set personal boundaries and don’t take too much on. You must look after yourself first, before you can help others.”
WELLBEING
At Mercury, we drive a culture of wellbeing that enables our people to succeed and thrive.
The physical and mental wellbeing of our employees is of supreme importance. By cultivating a positive and engaging working environment that supports and nurtures, we believe that our staff are better placed to deliver top-class results.
You can read more about our employee wellbeing strategy by clicking here.
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