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Freshfields meets its global mental health first aid training target
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP (‘Freshfields’) has met its target to provide mental health training to one in 25 of its people. The ‘mental health first aid programme’ was rolled out following a trial in 2017, and has now trained over 200 people across the firm. The programme is part of the firm’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace.
The target was set on Mental Health Awareness Day 2018 and since then the firm has trained people across all regions including the US, the UAE, Europe, the UK and Asia.
After completing their training, the first aiders then join a global support team, which includes partners, directors and members of the business services team. The training has been extremely well-received, and has given people the skills to spot the signs of mental distress, support their colleagues and also break down the stigma attached to mental health.
The firm is now rolling out a bespoke programme based on mental health first aid skills, across its Continental Europe offices which will be available in four separate languages.
Global MHFA programme lead and instructor Kristina Adey-Davies said “I am delighted we now have one in 25 of us trained across our global network, but the real impact of the programme is that more of us are better attuned to spotting changes in our colleagues who may be struggling, and more confident in how to support them to the professional help they may need”
Continental Europe Managing Partner and first aider Helmut Bergmann said “It is vital that we place mental health awareness at the top of our agenda to foster an environment that is inclusive and where people feel supported. I am proud of the commitment shown across our business to promote an environment conducive to good mental health for all.”
Freshfields also has a range of other initiatives designed to provide support to its people including a structured wellbeing programme across the UK focusing on wellbeing in three key areas – physical, mental and work/life integration.
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About Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP is a global law firm with a long-standing track record of successfully supporting the world's leading national and multinational corporations, financial institutions and governments on ground-breaking and business-critical mandates. Our 2,800 plus lawyers deliver results worldwide through our own offices and alongside leading local firms. Our commitment, local and multi-national expertise and business know-how means our clients rely on us when it matters most.