In 2019, as part of my manifesto I pledged to train 1,000 local people in Mental Health First Aid Awareness. I have long been committed to tackling the stigma around mental health and wellbeing. I want mental health to be seen in the same way as physical health, and to encourage people to talk about how they are feeling.

With thanks to funding from Camelot, and support from the Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce, I am delighted that hundreds of local people have already completed this training which I pledged to deliver.

It provides mental health awareness training to local businesses, schools and community groups. If you are interested in completing the training and would like more information please do contact me, and you can register your interest through the Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce website (https://watfordchamber.co.uk/mental-health-first-aid-awareness-training/)

There is a reduced fee (an almost 75 per cent reduction) and for students, small businesses and people from lower incomes, the fee will be waived. All participants must be a resident or affiliated to the Watford constituency to take part.

Nationally, I want to see mental health first-aid made compulsory in every workplace and I am currently steering a Ten-Minute Rule Bill through the Commons to try and achieve this. If successful, employers and colleagues could play a part in spotting symptoms, signposting people to further help, or simply just listening. It has been great to have local business tell me of their support for this Bill as we work to make mental health viewed in the same way as physical health.

  • Dean Russell is Conservative MP for Watford