Mental Health First Aid Training: Why Every Manager in South Yorkshire Needs It

By Mike Lawrence
Health & Wellbeing Consultant | MHFA England Instructor | Chair, BR Chamber Health & Wellbeing Forum

With Mental Health Awareness Week just around the corner (13–19 May), this is the perfect moment for businesses in South Yorkshire to pause and ask:
Are we genuinely equipped to support mental health at work—or just hoping for the best?

If someone collapsed at work, most managers would know what to do.
But if someone said:
“I can’t take this anymore.”
“I’m not coping.”
Would your team know how to respond?

What Is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a practical training course that gives managers and team leaders the skills to recognise early signs of mental health challenges, approach conversations with confidence, and signpost support services.

It’s not therapy. It’s a proactive, evidence-based approach—think of it as CPR for mental health.

As a certified MHFA England Instructor, I’ve delivered training to leaders across NHS trusts, universities, and SMEs—and time and again, I hear the same thing:
“Why weren’t we taught this sooner?”

Why Mental Health Training Is Urgent in 2025

The data is clear:

• 91% of UK adults experienced high or extreme stress last year

• 65% reported burnout

• Over half of all long-term sickness absences are due to mental health

And yet, most businesses still provide more training in fire safety than emotional wellbeing. That’s a dangerous oversight—and an avoidable one.

From Awareness to Action: The Business Case for MHFA

As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, many businesses will share hashtags, quotes, and posters. But real change doesn’t come from awareness alone—it comes from action.

When organisations invest in Mental Health First Aid training, they see tangible results:

Improved staff wellbeing
Reduced absenteeism
Stronger leadership confidence
Better employee engagement and retention

Mental health support isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s a strategic advantage.

South Yorkshire Businesses: Funding Is Available

Through the South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority (SYCMA), SMEs in the region can access support and funding to implement mental health training and wellbeing strategies.

I’ve worked with several businesses across the region to access this funding—if you’re unsure where to start, I’d be happy to help.

Final Thought

You wouldn’t send your team into the workplace without physical first aid cover.
So why do so many businesses still leave managers unprepared for mental health challenges?

If we’re serious about culture, retention, and resilience, then Mental Health First Aid training for managers isn’t optional—it’s overdue.

Let’s talk.
If you’d like help accessing training or building a wellbeing-first culture in your organisation, drop me a message:
hello@mikelawrence.co.uk
www.mikelawrence.co.uk

P.S.
You wouldn’t wait until someone collapses to train your team in first aid—so why wait until they’re emotionally overwhelmed to act on mental health?

Right now, managers across South Yorkshire are silently battling burnout, navigating stressed-out teams, and trying to lead without the tools they need. It’s not their fault—it’s the system they’re in.

Mental Health First Aid gives them a plan, a voice, and a way forward.

Let’s stop reacting. Let’s start preparing.

Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing

I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.

I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!

Feel free to email me at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!