A FREE training hub is raising the standard of mental health support for employees across County Durham.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations with fewer than 250 employees based in County Durham, are being offered free training and support to raise awareness of the importance of good mental health.

This is to reduce stigma and foster a supportive environment for employees.

Commissioned by Durham County Council and delivered by Hartlepool and East Durham Mind, the hub can be accessed free of charge by SME and VCS organisations. The programme is to be funded for two years.

The programmes will comprise of eLearning and traditional delivery formats, although face to face training is currently on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Methods of delivery will however be reviewed regularly in line with local and national guidance on this matter.

Business owners, managers and employees are all welcome to join the hub.

Subjects included in the training include mental health awareness, managing stress and improving personal resilience, certificated Mental Health First Aid and recognising and combating mental health stigma.