At least one in four adults experience at least one diagnosable mental health problem in any given year, and due to the pandemic, mental health issues are on the rise – especially in Wales. Mental health issues are very common in the workplace due to work-related stress and the associated challenges and costs. Remote working, returning to work, and COVID in general, have added to these challenges, with mental health issues in Wales seemingly on the rise. On average, every year in the UK, 70 million workdays are lost due to mental health problems; costing employers approx. £2.4 billion per year. Now, more than ever, businesses and organisations need to understand the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace. It is their responsibility to look after their employee’s health and wellness. At Ajuda, we can deliver courses that ensure your company has a Mental Health First Aider on site; individuals who have the confidence to spot the early warning signs of mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety disorders, stress, etc.) and encourage early intervention.
One of the key issues surrounding mental health is the lack of communication. Some people simply see talking about mental health issues as a taboo subject. The fundamental reason we deliver these courses is to educate. Employees will gain expertise, experience and relevant knowledge. Mental health first aid training will contribute towards your company building a positive and sustainable culture. In addition to being able to spot the early warning signs and triggers, mental health first aiders will be able to help guide and support employees who are going through recovery. A key aspect of any positive workplace culture is looking after one’s own personal health and wellbeing. Education, knowledge, and the encouragement of communication will help your employees build up their mental resilience.
So, what are the benefits of Mental Health First Aid training?
Opening Up
Overall, mental health is being talked about more and more; however, the UK has a long way to go before it opens up and starts to treat mental health the same way it treats physical health.
Investing in mental health first aid training will help your employees comfortably start a conversation and open up about their well-being.Educate
This will help them recognise potential triggers and early warning signs, allowing them to encourage the necessary support.Positive Workplace Culture
Employees on the course will be taught the importance of health and wellbeing and will gain skills in communicating empathically and positively.Aid in Recovery
Again, this benefit will boost the positive environment in your workplace.Personal Wellness
Individuals need to understand the importance of looking after their mental health, and what to do if they experience obstacles and issues.
Overall, people being aware of the problems will reduce the negative impact of mental health issues in the workplace.Building Resilience
This can reduce mental health-related sick days, and also help employees with their future issues.
Better Productivity
Multiple studies have shown that the better the mental health support in a workplace, the more productive it is.
Employees who feel supported, healthy and mentally resilient can concentrate and focus on tasks, and are far more confident in their roles.Additionally, work-related stress, which negatively impacts productivity, can be avoided.
Book onto one of our training courses and learn more about Mental Health First Aid
Author: kris ajuda
Mental Health First Aid Refresher
Course information
The Adult MHFA Refresher course is a 4 hour course for people who have previously completed the 12 hour Adult MHFA course within the last 3 years. The MHFA Refresher course will extend the certification or a further 3 years.
Want us to bring the training to you?
If we don't have dates suitable for you at our training centre then we can bring the training to your workplace.
Contact us on 02920 576883 or email admin@ajuda.org.uk
Course Objectives & Learning Outcomes
The Adult MHFA Refresher will give participants the opportunity to refresh the knowledge and skills they learnt from the 12 hour Adult MHFA course. During this course participants will:
- Gain an understanding of the latest research in mental health
- Learn the 3 key actions for helping someone feeling suicidal
- Work through complex mental health first aid interactions
- Practice mental health first aid skills
The content of each refresher course is based on guidelines developed through the expert consensus of people with lived experience of mental health problems and professionals.
Key Facts
- Duration: 1/2 Day
- Individual Price: £95.00
- Group Price (up to 12): £695
- Certificate will last for 3 years.
Venue
Ajuda Training Academy
15 Mount Stuart Square,
Cardiff Bay
Cardiff,
CF10 5DP
Phone: 029 2057 6883
Email: info@ajuda.org.uk
Lockdown’s Effect on Health and Wellness.
In this blog post, we will look at the impact lockdown has had on people’s health and wellness.
Overall, the pandemic has been a terrible time for a lot of people, and although needed, the government lockdowns have had a detrimental effect on people’s health and wellness.
Increased Stress and Anxiety
Fear of the virus, the anxiety of losing one’s job, the stress of working from home; there are many reasons why people may be feeling increased feelings of stress and anxiety during these times.
Research has shown that in March 2020, when lockdowns first started, 49.6% of people reported an increase in high levels of anxiety.
Stress and anxiety can cause a range of health problems, including:
– Anger issues.
– Poor sleep.
– Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other harmful substances.
– Headaches and migraines.
– Depression.
– Increased blood pressure.
– Further health risks.
It is important to remember that stress and anxiety are not just feelings, they are physical changes that can be felt by the body.
Rising blood pressure, constricting blood vessels, increased hormones; these physiological changes can lead to a variety of further health problems.
Increased Loneliness
The experience of working-from-home, or being stuck in the house, has left many people with feelings of loneliness. And, as naturally social beings, feelings of loneliness can have an extremely negative impact on people’s health and wellness.
Studies have linked social isolation to higher risks of mental and physical conditions, such as high blood pressure, obesity, depression, anxiety, and many more.
Feelings of loneliness during lockdown have been particularly prevalent amongst young adults, with 50% of 16-24 years olds reported feelings of ‘lockdown loneliness.’
Work-related Issues
The relationship between work and health can not be underestimated. People who experience work-related issues, often also experience problems with their health and wellness.
For some, working from home has been somewhat of a gift. But for others, this has been a tough time of adaptation and change. It really depends on the individual.
Of course, many are now returning to their workplaces and offices. However, after a year of turmoil, returning to work can also cause stress and anxiety.
Essentially, returning to a job after a period of absence can be overwhelming and challenging.
Overall, employers and businesses must support their staff during these difficulties, and make sure that they are ready to adapt.
Maintaining and monitoring Health and wellness in the workplace is essential.
In Conclusion
Again, although completely necessary, lockdown has had detrimental impact on people’s health and wellness. Stress, loneliness, depression, work-related anxiety; there many issues at play.
On a lighter note, it has not all been doom and gloom. There have been some positive impacts.
Some people have taken lockdown as a sign to prioritise their physical and mental health. Exercise is on the rise, and many more people are starting to see the importance of personal wellbeing.
Either way, now more than ever, it is important to show people support and help them overcome any issues. To reiterate, employers and businesses need to maintain and monitor employees’ health and wellness in the workplace.
What is CPR and why is it important? The medical technique performed on Christian Eriksen.
Many footballer fans and viewers from around the world were left shocked on the 12th of June, as renowned Danish footballer, Christian Eriksen, collapsed on the pitch in Denmark’s Euro 2020 match against Finland.
It has since been confirmed that the sportsman had suffered from a cardiac arrest.
Luckily, a team of medical professionals were able to swiftly treat the athlete and perform the CPR technique, undoubtedly saving him.The lifesaving actions of both the players and medical professionals serve as a reminder of just how important learning first aid and CPR is.
What is CPR?
CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
It is a first-aid technique that involves performing chest compressions and rescue breaths on the victim. Essentially, this action replaces the role of the heart and lungs, pumping blood and oxygen around the victim’s body.
This life-saving technique can be used in emergencies such as hearts attacks or a near-drowning, wherein the victim’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped.
It is recommended that individuals perform CPR even if they are somewhat unsure of how to do so. But, of course, first-aid training and CPR knowledge is extremely important.
How do I perform CPR?
If you witness a cardiac arrest, you must call 999 and start CPR immediately.
Due to the current pandemic, the British Heart Foundation has made some minor changes to how CPR is to be performed, but here are the current steps:
Step 1: Shake and shout for help.
Step 2: Call 999.
Step 3: Don't put your face close to theirs. If you think there's a risk of infection, use a towel or a piece of clothing and lay it over their mouth and nose.
Step 4: Give chest compressions only – do not give rescue breaths.
Step 5: Continue until an ambulance arrives.
Step 6: After the ambulance has taken over wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
Learning CPR is invaluable and can potentially save a life.
Click here to watch BHF’s guide on giving CPR during the coronavirus pandemic.
Book onto one of our fully accredited courses today
Contact us on 02920576883 or email admin@ajuda.org.uk
Changes have been made to the training you now need for a front-line SIA license.
Security Industry Authority (SIA) front-line license holders will be required to complete compulsory first aid training.
As you may or may not be aware, from the 1st of April 2021, Door Supervisor or Security Guard license applicants will now be required to complete first aid training.
In addition, those looking to renew their SIA license will be required to complete training from the 1st of October 2021.
More specifically, front line SIA license holders will be required to complete an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or an equivalent) before training to be a door supervisor or security guard.
Why is the SIA making these changes?
The SIA has decided to make these changes to keep the public safe and improve the skills of license holders.
Those working in the private, front-line security industry must understand how to both follow new working practices and make the best use of new technology.
Do I have to have the first aid training before I do my door supervisor or security guard top-up training?
To clarify, the SIA has clearly stated that both new license applicants and those looking to take top-up training will be required to complete Emergency First Aid at Working training (or equivalent training).
Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF)
Here at Ajuda, we can provide the Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF).
Furthermore, this Regulated Qualification is ideal for anyone wishing to become an SIA license holder and provides learners with the skills and knowledge to deal with first aid situations in a low-risk workplace environment for the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
On completion of this course, delegates will be able to:
1. Understand the role and responsibilities of a first aider.
2. Be able to assess an incident.
3. Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is breathing normally (recovery position).
4. Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is not breathing normally (CPR).
5. Be able to recognise and assist a casualty who is choking.
6. Be able to manage a casualty with external bleeding.
7. Be able to manage a casualty who is in shock.
8. Be able to manage a casualty with a minor injury.
We want to work with you.
At Ajuda, we have been delivering accredited First Aid qualifications for the security industry since 2006, and we have already welcomed many SIA License Holders since the start of 2021 in preparation for the proposed changes mentioned above.
We thrive on watching all our candidates succeed and we have a 98% pass rate on all accredited qualifications.
Above all, our prices are highly competitive, starting at just £795 + vat per group of 12 delegates. That is only £66.25 per person for a fully accredited qualification in first aid.
What is even better, is the fact we will come to your place of work and train your staff in a venue of your choice; at a time and date that best suits your needs.
We can help you be ready for the changes that are about the come.
Click Here
Or contact Kris in the office –
Tel – 02920576883 Email – Admin@ajuda.org.uk
Health and Safety in a Care Setting
Course information
Care homes are owned and managed by a wide range of organisations, including local authorities, the NHS, and organisations from the private and voluntary sectors. They differ from other workplaces because they are not only places of work; they are also homes for their residents. They should be places where the dignity and freedom of the residents is respected, and where everyone’s health and safety is managed effectively. To achieve this, everyone involved must understand their responsibilities.
This online Health and Safety in a Care Setting E-Learning course discusses the legislation that applies to care homes , the responsibilities of management and employees and looks at developing systems of work. The Health and Safety in a Care Setting E-Learning course also covers what to do in some common hazards you might encounter as well as some Emergency situations. It concludes by discussing some aspects of the work environment and staff welfare.
Health & Safety in a Care Setting Target Audience
This online Health and Safety in a Care Setting E-Learning course is aimed at anyone working in the care sector and should act as an introduction to health and safety in their place of work.
Health & Safety in a Care Setting Advantages
As this Health & Safety in a Care Setting online course covers a wide range of health and safety situations the course provides a strong basis to further build on with more training.
CPD approval means that this course can be used by those that need to prove they are continually developing themselves.
Online training is flexible, efficient, and cost-effective, meaning the candidate can progress through the modules at their own pace and in their own time to fit the training in around their work and personal life.
Number of modules: 9
Course Duration: 80 Minutes
(Note: This is based on the video content shown and is rounded off. It does not account in any way for loading time or thinking time on the questions)
Course Price: £25
Anti Money Laundering
Course information
Anti-Money Laundering Overview:
Our full suite of interactive video-based online courses can be white labelled and distributed by you.
Money-Laundering is a major criminal problem, worldwide. This course starts by defining money laundering and describing the ‘regulated sector’ as defined by the Proceeds of Crime Act.
The online Anti-Money Laundering E-Learning course discusses a number of money-laundering offences, including tax evasion, theft, fraud, bribery and the financing of terrorism.
You’ll learn about some of the ‘red flags’ which could indicate illegal activity, and the connections between money-laundering and certain financial institutions. You’ll see how the regulated sector combats money-laundering through compliance, due diligence, and record-keeping.
Finally, the online Anti-Money Laundering course examines companies’ internal controls and monitoring to fight against money-laundering, including policy statements, effective reporting systems, and staff responsibilities.
Anti-Money Laundering Target Audience
This online Anti-Money Laundering E-Learning course is suitable for anyone working in an organisation that handles large amounts of money. The online Anti-Money Laundering course can also be used as an introduction to the subject for those working or planning to work in a regulated sector.
Anti-Money Laundering Advantages
Training staff in Anti-Money Laundering can be used as part of a company’s proof that they are actively working to identify and discourage money-laundering
CPD approval means that this course can be used by those that need to prove they are continually developing themselves.
Online training is flexible, efficient, and cost-effective, meaning the candidate can progress through the modules at their own pace and in their own time to fit the training in around their work and personal life.
Number of modules: 5
Course Duration: 50 Minutes
(Note: This is based on the video content shown and is rounded off. It does not account in any way for loading time or thinking time on the questions)
Course Price: £35
Covid-19 Safe Workplaces Course
Course information
Our full suite of interactive video based online courses can be white labelled and distributed by you.
This Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning course explores the risk to workers caused by the Covid-19 virus and covers actions that employers and employees can take to protect themselves and each other as they return to work. The content of this Covid-19 Safe Workplaces online course is based on the latest information from the UK government and the NHS.
The Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning course covers information about the virus, risk assessments and personal safety, along with how to make changes to the daily work environment to address these risks.
Aimed at employers and employees the Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning course is intended to help plan and implement changes to the workplace and ease the transition back to the workplace for those returning to a central work location after long periods of remote working.
Covid-19 Safe Workplaces Course Target Audience
This online Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning course is aimed at anyone responsible for risk assessment and health and safety in the workplace. The Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning course can also be useful to those returning to work after working from home, or starting work during and following the pandemic.
Covid-19 Safe Workplaces E-Learning Advantages
Online training is flexible, efficient and cost-effective, so candidates can progress through the modules at their own pace, in their own time, making it easy to fit the training around their work and personal life.
Number of modules: 3
Course Duration: 30 Minutes
(Note: This is based on the video content shown and is rounded off. It does not account in any way for loading time or thinking time on the questions)
Course Price: £35
Cyber Security
Course information
Our full suite of interactive video-based online courses can be white labelled and distributed by you.
Employees, managers and directors should all have a good understanding of the threat posed by cyber-attacks and the importance of guarding against data breaches.
This short online Cyber Security E-Learning course will explain why cyber attacks and data breaches happen and provide practical advice on how to set up effective defences.
First, the Cyber Security online course will identify potential ‘cyber threat actors’ who initiate cybercrime, along with looking at the main motivations behind cyber-attacks on individuals and organisations.
On a more practical level, you’ll learn how to recognise and deal effectively with phishing attempts. The online Cyber Security course will highlight the importance of keeping passwords secure and cover security for devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets or desktop computers.
You’ll learn how to report a suspected cyber attack, and what to do if you genuinely make a mistake.
Finally, the Cyber Security E-Learning course will underline the importance of cooperation and show how working closely together helps overcome a wide range of cybersecurity issues.
Cyber Security Target Audience
The online Cyber Security E-Learning course is aimed at employees at all levels of an organisation as it provides an overview of some of the most common cyber security threats encountered in business.
Cyber Security Advantages
Training staff in cyber security is vital to protect your business from these ever present online threats.
CPD approval means that this course can be used in the future by those that need to prove they are continually developing themselves.
Online training is flexible, efficient, and cost-effective, meaning the candidate can progress through the modules at their own pace and in their own time to fit the training in around their work and personal life.
Number of modules: 3
Course Duration: 25 Minutes
(Note: This is based on the video content shown and is rounded off. It does not account in any way for loading time or thinking time on the questions)
Course Price: £35
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Show (Virtual) 2021
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Show is tomorrow
Here at Ajuda we are all super excited to be sponsoring and exhibiting at this Virtual Event on May 20th 2021
This will be an all-day show, aiming to promote positive mental health
Thursday May 20th
Virtual Tickets
Free Entry
There will be an exciting Ajuda Stand, so pop along and interact with Kris, who is going to be there all day and ready to assist.
The Mental Health & Wellbeing Show – a professional Virtual interactive all-day show on the 20th May 2021. By using state of the art technology the show will allow you to feel like you are at a real live event without actually leaving the house or office. Aiming to promote positive mental health through open conversation, promoting awareness and sharing real-life experiences.
The show will include a selection of seminars focused on topics such as coping with mental illness, ways to promote positive mental health, and how to support people around you who are suffering with ill mental health. Alongside this is an exhibition with over 60 charities, organisations and companies promoting their helpful resources, services and initiatives designed to support positive mental health and wellbeing.
The event is suitable for:
Adult Services, Schools, GPs, NHS Staff, CAMHS, Housing Associations, Charities, Youth Clubs, Staff in Residential Housing for Children and Mental Health, Foster Carers, Rehabilitation Centres, Colleges, Police Services, Sports Clubs, Spiritual and Holistic Therapists and many more!
Seminar and workshop topics will include;
Experiencing and living with mental health conditions including; Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, OCD, Post Natal Depression, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts. Mental Health recovery and journey, Mental Health in the workplace, school, college, university. Overcoming Eating Disorders, Addiction, Self Harm. The advantages of mindfulness, holistic therapies, meditation, sports and activities, arts and creative therapies. Living with Autism. The connection of diet & nutrition and mental health, The LGBTIQ+ community, The Role of the Mental Health First Aider in the Workplace, The Role of the Mental Health Lead in Schools. Psychological treatments. Experiencing loss, Peer support, Student life, Homelessness, Disability, Reducing stress and many more.
This event is sponsored and supported by Ajuda
5 Simple things businesses can do to improve health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Unfortunately, work-related stress will likely never disappear.
However, that doesn’t mean businesses shouldn’t try to make the workplace as stress-free as possible and promote wellness within the company.
It is essential for employees to feel supported, safe, energised, and healthy.
Here are 5 simple things businesses can do to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Promote a Healthy Diet
Diet has a huge impact on mental health, and the food we eat can influence our mood, motivation and productivity in work.
It is important to feed our brains the right nutrients and give our bodies sufficient energy for the day.
Businesses don’t need be pushy in promoting a healthy diet, and this step isn’t us saying only serve chicken and rice every day.
Simply provide healthy options where possible and promote the idea that healthy eating is good for the brain and body.
Encourage Exercise
We all know the benefits of exercise on the body, but physical exercise also has been proven to be extremely beneficial to our mental health.
From combating anxiety, stress, and depression, to boosting mental energy and productivity levels; exercise can have a profound impact on the health and wellness of the workplace.
Again, the key is to not be too pushy and demand all employees head straight to the gym.
For businesses, encouraging exercise could include daily step-count goals, virtual walking challenges or exercise during workhours.
Praise and Recognition
For some, the workplace may affect their health and wellness in that they don’t feel recognised or appreciated for the work they do.
Business can promote a workplace that recognises and praises achievements and hard work:
If someone has done a particularly good job one day, let them know.
If someone else has met a specific goal, congratulate them.
Or, if someone has reached their step-count goal for the day, praise them.
Work-life Balance
Perhaps now, more than ever, people are starting to see the importance of a work-life balance, and the affect this balance can have on one’s health and wellness.
Some prefer working from home, whilst some like working in an office environment. Each person is unique, and copes with work-related stress in different ways.
Of course, it is ultimately down to the business on where people work and what hours they do. But concepts such as flex-work time and no emails past work hours could go a long way in improving employees work-life balance, and boosting their health and wellbeing.
Education
To promote wellness in the workplace, business and employees could see to educate themselves on health and wellbeing.
Mental health is varied subject; but businesses and employees could learn about the prevention of serious complications, ways to help, how to communicate, the scale of alcohol abuse in the UK, or best business practices in terms of health and wellbeing.
Overall, it is important to encourage a workplace where talking about mental health issues and illness isn’t a taboo subject.
Everyone in the workplace will benefit from culture that shows gratitude to those who deserve it.
Click the link below to browse the many Mental Health courses Ajuda have to offer
We currently have smaller class sizes so would advise contacting us to check availability before booking any courses.
Contact the office on 02920576883 if you have any questions.
New training course launched – Covid Secure for Office
Here at Ajuda we are passionate about delivering the best training and are always looking for new courses that are relevant to our learners.
With this is mind we are proud to announce that we have a specially tailored training course fo anyone returning to an office environment after being of furlough or even if you are completely new to working in an office. This course will give you the skills and understanding around how you and your colleagues can remain covid safe whilst working.
Completely delivered via Zoom or teams so completely convenient for all to attend.