Supporting Mental Health at Work: Why Every Conversation Matters

When people think about health and safety, they often picture hard hats, PPE and safe working practices. But at KTL, keeping our people safe goes beyond physical protection. It also means creating an environment where employees feel supported, listened to and empowered to speak openly about their mental wellbeing.

One of the people helping drive that culture is Sophie Gallagher, a trained Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) and member of KTL's Wellbeing Committee.

Passionate about making mental health conversations more accessible, Sophie plays an important role in ensuring colleagues know they are never alone and that support is always available.

"My role as a Mental Health First Aider is to provide an initial point of contact and support for colleagues who may be experiencing mental health difficulties or wellbeing concerns," Sophie explains.

"Having trained Mental Health First Aiders across the business reinforces the message that mental health is just as important as physical health and safety."

Creating a culture where asking for help feels normal

Supporting mental wellbeing isn't simply about responding when someone is struggling—it's about creating a workplace where conversations around mental health become part of everyday culture.

As part of both her MHFA responsibilities and her role on the Wellbeing Committee, Sophie helps promote initiatives that encourage openness and reduce stigma throughout the year.

These include internal awareness campaigns for:

• World Mental Health Day

• Blue Monday

• Stress Awareness Week

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Toolbox Talks

• Time to Talk sessions across offices and project sites

  
  

These initiatives are designed to remind employees that support is available while encouraging colleagues to check in with one another.

"The conversations are informal, and the aim of the sessions is to encourage open conversations about mental health, wellbeing and any challenges anyone may be facing, either at work or in their personal lives."

By creating opportunities for colleagues to connect over something as simple as a cup of tea, coffee and conversation, KTL is helping remove the stigma that can often prevent people from asking for help.

Being a trusted first point of contact

Mental Health First Aiders are not therapists or counselors. Instead, they provide immediate support, reassurance and guidance when someone may be experiencing mental health challenges.

Employees can access support through KTL's dedicated Wellbeing SharePoint page, where details of trained Mental Health First Aiders are readily available.

When someone reaches out, Sophie says they can expect empathy above all else.

"Anyone who reaches out to a Mental Health First Aider can expect a supportive, confidential and non-judgemental conversation."

"A Mental Health First Aider should be seen as a first point of contact who can help in the moment and guide someone towards the correct professional or organisational support if needed."

Alongside this peer support, employees also have access to KTL's Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), which provides confidential counselling sessions delivered face-to-face, online or via telephone, as well as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) resources.

Together, these services ensure colleagues have multiple avenues to access the help they need.

Recognising the signs before someone asks for help

One of the most valuable aspects of Sophie's training is learning how to recognise when someone may be struggling—even before they say anything.

Mental health challenges can affect behaviour in many different ways, and often the signs are subtle.

Managers and colleagues are encouraged to look out for changes such as:

• Arriving late or changes in attendance

• Missing deadlines

• Making more mistakes than usual

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering information

• Appearing withdrawn or disengaged

• Excessive worrying or anxiety

• Behaving noticeably out of character

  
  

Recognising these changes early can make a significant difference in helping someone access support before challenges become more serious.

Training that extends far beyond the workplace

To become a qualified Mental Health First Aider, Sophie completed the Level 3 Adult Mental Health: Workplace First Aider course with St John Ambulance.

While the qualification equips Mental Health First Aiders with practical workplace skills, Sophie says the benefits extend well beyond work.

"The skills I learnt during my training have given me the ability to look out for signs that someone may be struggling not only in the workplace, but also outside of work."

She continues to build on that knowledge by promoting awareness campaigns throughout the year and staying actively involved in KTL's wellbeing initiatives.

Making a difference—even before someone asks

Although Sophie hasn't yet had a colleague approach her directly for support, she believes the role is already making a positive impact.

Simply knowing that trained Mental Health First Aiders are available helps reassure employees that they have someone they can turn to if they ever need support.

For Sophie, volunteering for the role came from recognising how much a simple conversation can mean.

"I put myself forward because I recognise the importance of mental health and what a difference it can make when you have someone available to reach out to if you need to."

Sometimes, knowing someone is there is enough to make taking that first step feel less daunting.

Supporting those who support others

Looking after Mental Health First Aiders is equally important.

To ensure ongoing support, KTL has recently established a dedicated Microsoft Teams channel where Mental Health First Aiders and Mental Health Champions can share experiences, ask questions and support one another.

Regular quarterly meetings are also being introduced to encourage collaboration, continuous learning and peer support.

This network ensures that those supporting colleagues also have access to guidance and wellbeing resources themselves.

Encouraging others to get involved

For anyone considering becoming a Mental Health First Aider, Sophie has one simple message.

"I would encourage them to go for it."

She believes the role offers an opportunity not only to support colleagues but also to develop valuable life skills.

"Becoming a Mental Health First Aider is an opportunity to develop the skills and confidence to support colleagues who may be experiencing mental health challenges. These skills are transferable into life outside of work too."

"It's also an opportunity to help promote and be a part of a supportive workplace for your colleagues."

Putting people first

At KTL, wellbeing is more than a programme—it's part of our culture.

Through Mental Health First Aiders like Sophie Gallagher, awareness campaigns, wellbeing initiatives and access to professional support, we're creating a workplace where every colleague knows they don't have to face challenges alone.

Because protecting our people means looking after both their physical safety and their mental wellbeing.

And sometimes, the most powerful support we can offer starts with a simple conversation.