Why training matters
Investing in good quality mental health training can be an important step in proactively managing wellbeing in your workplace. The right training can:
- promote positive mental health and wellbeing
- raise awareness and understanding of mental health
- help colleagues and managers to have better conversations about mental health
In Leeds, employers can access a wide range of trusted training options – from national providers to free or low-cost local sessions.
Creating a training plan
It’s good practice to develop a training plan as part of your overarching wellbeing strategy.
When building your plan, think about:
- the particular needs of your workforce
- the skills and knowledge you want training to address
- different approaches for managers, team members, and new starters
A flexible plan that combines different training types usually works better than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Ask yourself:
- Do staff know where to find local support in Leeds?
- Do managers feel confident talking about mental health?
- Are there resilience or wellbeing skills that could help teams thrive?
Finding the right training for your team
Organisations have different budgets and needs, but you may want to consider a stepped approach:
- mental health awareness training for all staff and new starters
- Mental Health First (MHFA) Aiders and MHFA Champions spread across teams
- manager training to help them feel confident supporting staff
- resilience training as part of professional development
Bursaries can sometimes be available (check with individual providers). Free or lower-cost options include Making Every Contact Count (MECC) and some online training.
MindWell has created a guide to training available in Leeds and nationally, covering:
- mental health awareness
- MHFA
- training for managers
- suicide awareness and prevention
- wellbeing and resilience workshops
Free monthly MindWell training
Want to feel more confident signposting to mental health support in Leeds?
MindWell runs short, practical online training sessions bimonthly – free for anyone in a signposting role.
You’ll learn how to:
- Navigate the MindWell site effectively
- Find local support for mental health and wellbeing
- Use trusted tools and resources with the people you support
These sessions are ideal for social prescribers, peer support workers, community teams, carers, and anyone supporting others in Leeds.
Book your free place on Eventbrite or follow MindWell on Eventbrite to hear about future dates.