Allison Homes celebrates Mental Health First Aider Day

At Allison Homes, we’re proud to celebrate the first ever national Mental Health First Aider Day (12th November) – a moment to recognise the incredible colleagues who go above and beyond to support positive mental health and wellbeing across our teams.

With a strong commitment to fostering a supportive workplace, we’ve built a network of 14 trained Mental Health First Aiders across all regions, each available to listen without judgement, offer guidance, and signpost colleagues to further support when needed.

Training to make a difference

Our Mental Health First Aiders are part of our commitment to creating a supportive and open culture where wellbeing is prioritised every day, whether on site or in an office.

All our Mental Health First Aiders have completed specialist training to help them spot the early signs of stress or anxiety and start supportive conversations.

Russell and Paula’s stories

Among our Mental Health First Aiders are Senior Site Manager, Russell Patrick and Customer Experience Manager, Paula Merrill, who both shared their thoughts on the importance of supporting mental health in the workplace.

Russell, who has been part of the construction industry for more than 20 years and joined us in 2021, said: “Construction has historically had a macho culture, and it’s vital we create systems that give people a safe space to express their feelings.”

He added that becoming a Mental Health First Aider has helped him recognise wellbeing concerns not just in others, but in himself too.

Paula, who has been with us since 2019, highlighted that construction workers are among the professions with the highest suicide rates, often due to high pressure, long hours, isolated working and financial strain.

She explained that since becoming a Mental Health First Aider, she has continued to make herself available to anyone who might need support, adding: “It’s incredibly important for people to feel open to express their feelings in the workplace. I also understand why that can be difficult, which is why offering confidential helplines and safe spaces to talk makes such a difference.”

Paula explained that her training has equipped her to recognise signs of stress, listen without judgment and guide colleagues towards further support when needed.

A culture of care

We also encourage everyday wellbeing through initiatives such as Walking Wednesdays, on site and office communications, and access to external support from The Lighthouse Charity and the Aviva Smart Health Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

Zoe Evans, Head of HR at Allison Homes, said: “Creating a workplace where people feel safe, supported and able to talk openly about mental health is fundamental to who we are. Our Mental Health First Aiders play a vital role in that culture, offering a compassionate first point of contact and helping colleagues access the right support early. I’m incredibly grateful to every First Aider for the time, care and dedication they give to others.”

Mental health support isn’t just a one-day focus; it’s part of our everyday culture at Allison Homes. We’re proud of every colleague who champions wellbeing and helps create a workplace where everyone feels safe, supported and heard.

Learn more about Mental Health First Aider Day.

Allison Homes Web Article: 12th November 2025