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Mental Health First Contact launch

Posted on 23 November 2017

The University has launched its Mental Health First Contact Network to help guide staff to the right support services.

A talk at the Mental Health First Contact launch event

The network provides a first point of contact in each department for members of staff who may be experiencing difficulties.

Over the last 18 months the University has coached over 500 staff through its Mental Health First Aid training programme (login required via the Learning Management System (LMS)) to recognise the first signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions, to provide help on a first aid basis, and to direct staff to the most appropriate support services.

Launch event‌

The network was formally launched at an event organised jointly by HR and Health, Safety and Security on Wednesday 22 November at which Poppy Jaman, CEO of Mental Health First Contact England, delivered a keynote speech. The event gave thanks to all the staff who have been involved in setting up the network and to those who have volunteered to be part of the group as first contacts and have undertaken the training.

The event also formed part of York’s continuing commitment to promote positive mental health among the whole University community.

Further information about the University’s Mental Health First Contact Network, its members, and the help available to staff can be found via the HR webpages.