I’ve always loved helping people, knowing that I've made somebody feel better. I’ve been a first aider with Tioga for almost twenty years, so I was excited when they asked if I’d like to be a mental health first aider, as well. I think it’s important to talk about mental health to raise awareness. I think companies should give equal importance to mental wellbeing as they do to physical health and safety in the workplace – it’s just as important if not more so.

I completed a two-day mental health first aid course with St John Ambulance last year, and it wasn’t long after that when I needed to use the skills I learned.

A colleague asked if they could talk to me in private and as soon as we sat down they burst into tears. It was about 10 minutes before they were able to compose themselves enough to talk.

I told them: ‘Take your time. When you’re ready to talk, I’m ready to listen.’

Eventually they started explaining that their long-term relationship had come to an abrupt end about two weeks earlier. I knew this person and could understand why they were so cut up because they’d been best friends with their partner in a relationship which had lasted several years.

While they were talking, I noticed they were very agitated and fidgety, scraping and rubbing their fingers against their hand. They told me they hadn’t been able to sleep much which I could see from their appearance. I listened for about 40 minutes. A lot of what they were saying was repetitive but it helped them to get it all out.

I was concerned about the way they were talking and acting in such an agitated manner. I told them they were very brave to open up, especially as they’d never been able to before. Our company offers private healthcare to its staff and I suggested it might be a good idea to speak to a doctor who could help with their sleeping problems and general health. They’ve since received medical help and advice.

We’ve had many get-togethers and chats over the following weeks and each time I saw an improvement in this person’s mental health. They’ve been able to take control of their emotions but they’ve also recognised that there are some things which they can’t control. It’s been hard for them but they’re heading in the right direction.

I never force the issue. They just need someone to let it all out to and to listen to them. They know I’ll continue to support them until they don’t need me anymore.

I’ve never had an issue with talking to people and listening but the St John Ambulance training helped give me more knowledge about how to do this better. It has enhanced my knowledge, skills and confidence massively.

The course teaches you to approach every situation with sensitivity and open-mindedness - until you listen, you don't know how to respond to that person’s problem. Eye contact is important and you need to let them start the conversation when they’re ready. Let them know you’re listening by acknowledging what they’re saying and never force anything.

I’ve used the training on plenty of occasions – sometimes it’s been a case of being a listening ear to people who needed to release their frustration but other cases have been more serious.

It’s all about the person. If a person's in a better place, they don't do the job. We want to make people feel like they can feel wanted here.