Fix Auto UK introduces well-being initiative

Fix Auto UK has launched a major initiative which will result in every franchise partner within its network having at least one qualified first aider specialising in mental health support.

The initiative is being spearheaded by regional business manager Carl Norton who has recently become a Mental Health First Aid Trainer himself, after undergoing Fix Auto UK-sponsored training.

Now, 14 more individuals will undergo the training before the programme is rolled out across the wider network.

Norton said: “Mental ill health can strike at any time and can affect any one of us. From dealing with a minor cut to a far more serious incident, there has long been a whole raft of first aid procedures in place in the event of an accident in the workplace but mental health illness has been, until now, overlooked. The reality is we don’t tend to know how to take care of our mental health, or even identify when someone is suffering with it.

“The course I run teaches how to listen, reassure and respond to help a colleague. It really is all about educating people how to identify, understand and help someone who may be experiencing a mental health issue. You simply learn how to recognise warning signs of mental ill health and develop the skills and confidence to approach and support someone while keeping yourself safe.”

Ian Pugh, managing director for Fix Auto UK, said: “Our goal is to ensure every franchise partner along with the head office operation has at least one certified mental health first aider. Yes, we could have employed a company or an individual to be a mental health first aider trainer to ensure everyone within the entire network is supported but it was obvious to sponsor Carl through the course so we have someone within our own ranks to ensure it will be a continual process.”