What a Mental Health First Aider Does at DWP: Sean's Story

My name is Sean, and I’m a Disability Employment Adviser at Bristol Jobcentre. I’ve worked for the department for over 10 years in a range of roles, from the National Line to Case Manager, as well as covering the Work Coach role. I’ve always approached each role with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to supporting others.

I’ve been a Mental Health First Aider for eight years and was part of one of the first training cohorts in 2018. Alongside this, I’ve had my own experiences of mental health challenges, so I understand that there may be times when people need extra support. Growing up in a family with a wide range of neurodiversity and mental health experiences also meant these conversations were a normal part of everyday life.

Before Mental Health First Aiders were introduced, I experienced a bereavement, which was an extremely difficult time. I was signposted to DWP’s Employee Assistance Programme, received grief counselling, and my manager supported me throughout. That support made a real difference and helped me understand the value of having people in the workplace who can listen, show understanding and help others access support when they need it.

That experience is what made me want to support others in the same way I had been supported, and that’s something that still motivates me today.

When the opportunity to become a Mental Health First Aider came up in 2018, I jumped at the chance and felt privileged to be selected. It genuinely feels like an honour to help others in the way I was helped. Since Mental Health First Aiders were introduced, I’ve seen a strong shift across the department in how mental health is understood and discussed.

In terms of the role itself, I do whatever I can to raise awareness and support colleagues appropriately. This has included delivering sessions to groups of up to 100 people both in person and on Teams, to raise awareness of the Mental Health First Aider role. During lockdown, my colleagues and I created mental health tele kits for homeworkers at the Bristol Service Centre. I’ve also supported wellbeing conversations, organised and taken part in Time to Talk sessions, and acted as an ambassador for Mental Health First Aid within DWP.

On a one-to-one level, the most important thing I do is listen. For many people this is the first time they’ve spoken openly about how they’re feeling, which can be difficult. Creating a safe, non-judgemental space is vital. I help people talk through what’s going on and, where appropriate, support them to think about next steps. This often involves signposting to support such as DWP’s Employee Assistance Programme, DWP’s Wellbeing Hub, local organisations, mental health charities, or GP services. With consent, I may also speak to others to help make sure the right support is in place.

At times, people are dealing with situations that feel overwhelming. Part of my role is helping them take a step back, consider their options, and access the support available. I approach this in a similar way to physical first aid—responding promptly, listening carefully, and helping people find the right route to support. People are given the time and space they need to talk, and I make sure to follow up and check in with them over time.

I’ve often said that being a Mental Health First Aider is one of the most meaningful things I do at work, and I truly believe that. I’m proud to work for a department that puts Mental Health First Aid at the heart of its wellbeing support. The changes over the past decade have been significant, and Mental Health First Aiders have played an important role in shaping how mental health is understood and supported across the department.

Author: Sean