HCA looks for mental health 'champions' in healthcare communications

The UK’s Healthcare Communications Association has unveiled a new initiative to improve mental health conditions for those working in up the upper levels of medical communications.

The not-for-profit organisation has teamed up with community group Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) to deliver tailored training and awareness programmes for healthcare communication professionals.

Announced alongside today’s World Mental Health day, the initiative is aimed at senior managers and open to all disciplines across the sector to raise awareness and build up a number of mental health ‘champions’.

Mike Dixon, the HCA’s CEO, said: “Many healthcare communication professionals will have worked on initiatives within mental health, but how often do we consider our own mental health or the mental health of those we work with?

“When more people are equipped with the tools they need to star a dialogue, more people can get the help and support they may need early, before it becomes a problem.”

Based on MHFA England’s ‘MHFA Champion’, the programme will take place over one day, teaching participants the skills required to identify, understand and respond to mental health among the work place.

Poppy Jaman, CEO at MHFA England, said: “When staff wellbeing is better supported we know that employees and organisations benefit in terms of retention, staff engagement, productivity and job satisfaction.

“It’s encouraging to see organisations like the HCA leading by example on World Mental Health Day and making mental health first aid training available to its members.”

* The first course will be held on the 17 January 2018.