Supporting Deric to improve mental wellbeing in his workplace

Mental health is a critical issue for the UK’s horticulture industry. Poor mental health can have a significant impact on every aspect of life including physical health, relationships and work. At Perennial, at least a third of people accessing our services have a mental health condition.

In response, Perennial is collaborating with the horticultural industry to raise awareness and promote a better understanding of mental health challenges, focusing on equipping individuals and workplaces with the tools needed to support wellbeing, fostering healthier working environments. Deric Newman, manager at green space management company Glendale, joined one of the first Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) courses provided by Perennial:

“Having been involved in landscaping for over 30 years I have gained deep knowledge of the sector, and seen first-hand the impact poor mental health can have on people working in horticulture. I joined one of the first accredited Mental Health First Aider courses that Perennial provided and it has had a huge impact here at Glendale.

Being a qualified Mental Health First Aider means that I am available to colleagues that may be experiencing poor mental health, offering them front line support and encouraging them to access sources of professional help and other support services. With these new skills I and the rest of Glendale’s MHFA team have been able to make a real positive difference to people’s lives.

I now deliver wellbeing presentations across the organisation, challenging the preconceived notions that mental health is not a workplace issue. It now sits alongside physical first aid as an important part of employee welfare.

As well as providing the training and resources, Mental Health First Aiders receive ongoing support through Perennial’s MHFA network which has been invaluable to myself and the team.

Glendale now have Mental Health First Aiders across the organisation and have introduced simple tool kits for all staff to have on hand - rather like a first aid box. But the biggest achievement has been making it more acceptable to talk about how we are feeling and recognising and being empathetic and supportive to how our colleagues are feeling.

I would encourage all businesses, particularly those within the horticultural sector, to have a Mental Health First Aider and join the Perennial MHFA network.”