Cumbrian charity Every Life Matters is helping to improve mental health support across the county by rolling out accredited Mental Health First Aid England® courses.
The charity who is an official instructor member of MHFA
England®, is offering the training in communities across Cumbria from Barrow to
Carlisle, from Workington to Penrith. The course gives people the skills to
spot the signs of mental health problems, provide initial help, and guide
others towards professional support.
The initiative comes as Every Life Matters prepare to mark
World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2025. This year’s theme, “How culture
affects mental health”, highlights the diverse ways people understand and
experience mental wellbeing, and aims to encourage more open conversations.
The training is led locally by Hannah Cleasby, a very
experienced instructor with a background in mental health support and teaching.
Participants receive a workbook and manual, access to three years of digital
resources, and ongoing opportunities to continue learning.
Hannah said: “This isn’t just about teaching skills – it’s
about building a community of people across Cumbria who feel confident to step
in and support someone when they need it most.”
One recent participant said the course made a real
difference in her workplace. “A few weeks after completing the training, I
noticed a colleague withdrawing and looking overwhelmed. Before, I wouldn’t
have known what to do, but the course gave me the confidence to check in. That
simple conversation helped them open up and get the support they needed.”
Stories like this reflect a growing recognition of the value
of Mental Health First Aiders in everyday settings. Employers report that
trained staff can help reduce stigma and foster a more supportive and inclusive
culture. Investing in health demonstrates a genuine commitment to staff
wellbeing, improving morale and retention.
Deloitte UK states in their annual review that poor mental
health costs UK employers up to £51 billion each year. But for every
£1 spent by employers on staff wellbeing, they get back £4.70.
Courses will run regularly across Cumbria, with spaces
available for individuals, community groups and organisations and can be found
on the website: www.every-life-matters.org.uk
The charity is also launching its first Autumn Seminars,
focused on Autism & Suicide Prevention — a practical half-day session
designed to support autistic individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts and to
promote safe responses to self-harm. There will be 2 sessions held in Barrow
and Workington aimed at people who work with, volunteer with, or advocate for
autistic people. More information about these seminars is available on the
charity’s website.
Then select "Add to Home Screen"
