Dean Russell MP has launched a mental health first aid initiative in Watford, in collaboration with Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce, Wellspring Church and Watford mental health champion, councillor Rabbi Martins.
The MP has today officially launched the initiative, which will see 1,000 new mental health first aiders, with the support of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, with a video that was recorded at Beechfield School earlier this month.
Part of Dean Russell MP’s general election manifesto last year was a commitment to train 1,000 mental health first aiders as part of his campaign to transform mental wellbeing in the town.
As of Wednesday, September 23, local people can register an interest in becoming trained in mental health first aid. an interest in becoming trained in mental health first aid.
Watford-based Camelot, the operator of The National Lottery, is funding the initiative, having provided £30,000 for the project.
Dean Russell MP said: “I am delighted to be able to launch this project with the support of the Prime Minister, the Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce and so many brilliant local people – not to mention Camelot.
“Transforming the mental health of our town is a personal priority of mine and even though COVID-19 slowed down this initiative, I am so pleased to be able to get it back up and running again.”
Nigel Railton, CEO of Camelot: “Camelot is proud to call Watford home and so we are really pleased to support this important Mental Health First Aider project which will improve the wellbeing of our neighbours.
“We know first-hand the value of having Mental Health First Aiders, as Camelot has its own in-house team who do an excellent job.
“That our £30,000 donation will cover the training costs for six people to become instructors for the benefit of Watford’s local community is absolutely brilliant.”
Chris Luff, CEO of Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce: “We believe mental wellbeing is the most critical and impactful issue that faces our workforce today.
“In both our personal and professional lives, we all have a responsibility to participate & contribute to the wellbeing of our community – regardless of what you do, who you are and where you come from.
“I am pleased to work with our local MP and wider Watford community in training mental health first aiders.”
This Watford project will provide mental health first aid training to local businesses, schools and community groups.
People can register their interest through the Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce, here watfordchamber.co.uk/events/mhfa-2021-letsgettrained.
0 Comments