We are pleased to say that Howard Civil Engineering now have three fully qualified Mental Health First Aiders within our ranks! 

Pre-construction coordinator Sophie Henderson has recently completed her Mental Health First Aid training and is now able to provide additional support and wellbeing advice to other members of our workforce both in our offices and on-site. 

Sophie joins health and safety advisor Wanda Curtis, who completed her training last February, and HR & payroll manager Emma Wallbank, who completed her training last month. 

‘I am pleased to be able to play in integral role in breaking down the stigmas which surround poor mental health within the construction industry,’ said Sophie. ‘This qualification means I am now equipped to build on the fantastic work already underway at Howard Civil Engineering, and ensure that my colleagues feel comfortable approaching me with concerns about their own mental health or the mental health of another team member.’ 

Whereas Wanda and Emma both attended two-day sessions to complete their training, Sophie opted for virtual training which fit easily into her working day. 

‘I would like to give my thanks to Bill Ford who delivered the course on behalf of Workplace Mental Health Training,’ she said. ‘He was very knowledgeable and made my feel very comfortable. Although the course was online, I certainly felt that I got the most out of the sessions and feel very confident in utilising my training in the workplace.’ 

Sophie has certainly come a long way from the Health and Safety apprentice who joined us six years ago! Well done Sophie, and keep up the good work.

If you are experiencing poor mental health or have concerns about a colleague’s mental health and would like further advice, please contact any of Howard Civil Engineering’s Mental Health First Aiders who will be able to help privately and sympathetically.