Mental Health Awareness Week at Murray Hall

How often do we ask someone how they really are—and pause long enough to listen to the answer?

As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, it's a reminder that mental health affects every single one of us. Whether we’re managing our own wellbeing or supporting others, knowing how to recognise the signs, listen without judgement, and offer the right kind of help can make all the difference.

Murray Hall's Mental Health First Aiders

This week at Murray Hall, a group of our staff took part in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training—some for the first time, others refreshing their skills. It was a powerful and informative course, delivered by MFHA instructors, Rhi and Kay, who brought a wealth of knowledge, lived experience, and compassionate guidance.

The training was more than just a course—it was a chance to grow our awareness, build confidence, and understand the vital role we can play in supporting mental health in our workplace and communities.

Some of the key things we explored included:

• Recognising signs of mental health challenges early

• Understanding how to approach sensitive conversations

• Learning how to listen in a non-judgemental way

• Knowing when and how to signpost to professional help

• The importance of boundaries and self-care for those offering support

  
  

One participant shared, “Before the training, I often worried I’d say the wrong thing. Now I feel more confident in just being present and knowing that listening is sometimes the best support we can offer.”

Looking Ahead

The MHFA training has equipped us with practical tools, but more importantly, it’s helped open up conversations across the organisation. We’ve come away not just with new skills, but a renewed commitment to fostering a culture where mental health is openly discussed and actively supported.

We’d like to thank Rhi and Kay for their patience, encouragement, and for creating such a safe and insightful learning space.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Whether you're an employer, colleague, friend or family member—there’s always more to learn and ways to support one another.

If you're interested in MHFA training, you can find more information through Mental Health First Aid England. Let’s continue to look out for each other—not just this week, but every week.