WeatherQuest Invests in Mental Health First Aid Training
WeatherQuest is pleased to share that two members of our team, Ian Gooch and Ruby Warner, have recently qualified as Mental Health First Aiders through a two-day course delivered by St John Ambulance.
While Mental Health First Aiders are not therapists or counsellors, the training equips Ian and Ruby with the skills to recognise signs of mental ill-health, listen non-judgmentally, offer initial support and signpost colleagues to professional help where appropriate.
Supporting our people, supporting our clients
At WeatherQuest, we know that good mental health is essential to doing our best work – especially in a field where clear thinking, judgement and collaboration are vital for delivering high-quality weather and climate services.
By investing in Mental Health First Aid training, we are:
- Strengthening our internal support network so colleagues have someone trained to talk to if they’re struggling.
- Improving how we assess and manage psychosocial risks in the workplace, alongside our existing health and safety commitments.
- Exploring tools such as Wellness Action Plans, so that team members can proactively identify what helps them stay well at work and what early warning signs to look out for.
This work draws on best-practice guidance from recognised mental health charities and is part of our broader commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive and sustainable working environment.
A long-term commitment
Mental health problems are common and treatable, and we want everyone at WeatherQuest to feel able to speak up early and seek support. By building awareness and putting practical measures in place, we aim to:
- Reduce stigma around mental health
- Encourage open, respectful conversations
- Help our team stay healthy, resilient and focused – for the benefit of our colleagues, partners and clients
“Our people are at the heart of everything we do,” says Ian. “Investing in mental health training is one way we can look after each other, so we’re at our best when we’re looking after our clients.”
