'my strength is not that of an individual but that of a collective'

maori proverb

There is a very simple message behind Mind First Aid, with a little understanding, learning and sense of connection we can change the community around us. What we understand about mental health problems is that many people don't know much about them, feel a sense of guilt or failure when they aren't coping and that all this is exacerbated if the person becomes isolated. Mind First Aid, the brain child of Jim Green and Peter Gianfrancesco, aims to tackle each of these problems within a project that focuses on learning, the community and volunteering.

Mental Health First Aid

People who don't know much about mental health tend to put off seeking help when they start to feel unwell. For friends, family and those close to someone in distress it can be hard to know what to do, particularly if you've never been shown. In order to help those of us who aren't sure Mind First Aid offers some training in the form of Mental Health First Aid. Like physical first aid, this course aims to improve our knowledge of what's happening and how to help someone experiencing difficulties. This means you can reassure someone and help them access the help they need. After doing the course many Mental Health First Aiders become visible members of their community helping at home, work and with the people they come across in their day-to-day lives. To learn more about the course click here.

Associates

It's important to feel we are connected to our community and with like minded people. Mind First Aid provides this sense connection through the Associates, a collective of over 2000 people here in Norfolk who are interested in well-being and mental health. Becoming an Associate is free and opens you up to a whole world of opportunities, learning and events in your area. If you'd like to learn more click here.

Volunteering

Feeling useful and like you are contributing to your local community is a vital part of maintaining your mental health. Mind First Aid aims to help people access local resources in order to give a little something back whilst reaping all the benefits associated with volunteering. To learn more click here.

Bob's Story

Bob used to work as a courier driver but had to stop last year because of depression. He spent a lot of time at his local pub. He did our two day training course and then became an associate. Being around people who had been through similar felt reassuring and he met lots of people doing interesting things around where he lives. He still spends time at the pub but other regulars know he's someone they can approach about mental health concerns. The pub has recently hosted an evening talk to highlight the issue of depression in men.