The Richmond Institute recently found themselves with an “away” fixture, delivering Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) to staff at the Essendon Football Club.
Once a suitable time was arranged to fit into the busy Bomber schedule, the staff completed the blended MHFA course with an engaging and thought-provoking face-to-face session.
James Polkinghorne, Essendon’s Education Academy Manager found the session a positive and worthwhile experience.
“I was really interested to get involved with the MHFA course to equip myself with tools and tactics that I can use to assist others around me to thrive. Participating in the training provided education and training opportunities in a safe and collaborative environment. Fostering a psychologically safe workplace and culture that promotes help-seeking and normalisation was something I wanted to be part of and help to drive.”
Session facilitator David Bastian echoed James’s sentiments. “For the Bombers to find time during their men’s season to carry out the training, demonstrated a strong commitment to the wellbeing of their staff and emphasis on educating and raising awareness around mental health and how to intervene if a situation arises”.
If your organisation or club is interested in Mental Health First Aid training, please email rievents@richmondfc.com.au
