MHFA Awards 2012, House of Lords
House of Lords awards ceremony recognises England's mental health champions
The second annual Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England awards ceremony took place on 26 January 2012 at the House of Lords in London. The awards recognise those who have championed mental health wellbeing and helped increase public understanding of mental health issues in England.
Professor Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, Patron of MHFA England, hosted the celebratory event to recognize the exceptional work done by individuals and organisations to increase the mental health awareness and resilience of communities through mental health first aid.
Professor Lord Patel of Bradford OBE said:
"MHFA England is not only an innovative and professional organisation, it is an essential community resource that is using its entrepreneurial skills to lead the way in community engagement."
This year's Award winners range from exemplary individuals to larger public sector organisations and visionary companies including NHS Trusts, national and local mental health charities, St John's Ambulance, the Royal British Legion, the Salvation Army, Universities, the Princes Trust and Financial Data Services companies.
The overall category winners will be announced at the event, the three categories being the MHFA Champion Awards, the MHFA Course Awards and Outstanding Team Contribution Award.
Nigel Jones, a senior partner, and chair of the health & wellbeing committee, at global law firm Linklaters, which is sponsoring the event, said:
"We are proud to sponsor this awards ceremony and support the amazing work that MHFA do. At Linklaters we encourage our staff to take responsibility for their wellbeing and adopt healthy lifestyles, through, for example, the food served at our on-site restaurant and free access to our on-site gym. With assistance from MHFA, we help our employees to recognise the early symptoms of stress, to understand what to do when they spot them in themselves and their colleagues, and to know who to turn for help."
Simon Weston OBE also spoke at the event, highlighting the need for good mental health support for veterans.
Photos can be found here. The Awards Brochure can be found here.
