The programme aims to create mentally healthy workplaces.

Mental health charity Support in Mind Scotland (Sims) has launched a new range of specialist training courses designed to help employers create mentally healthy workplaces.

The charity provides compassionate support and services to more than 1,300 people each week affected by mental illness, and has offered support over the phone, by text and online throughout the Covid-19 crisis.

Sims has now rolled out a new range of training packages, built on the belief that mental health awareness is a key element in establishing a flourishing workplace.

The courses are factual, evidence-based and offer examples of lived experience. They aim to develop participants’ knowledge, skills and confidence to provide support to colleagues and offer pathways to getting the help they may need.

Frances Simpson, Sims CEO, said: “We know that over 70 million working days are lost every year in the UK to anxiety, stress and depression and this isn’t only damaging to the economy and to business, but devastating for the individuals and families who are affected.

“We aim to reach people early, provide support and to keep them well and safe at work, which is where they want to be.

“Our new range of mental health courses are informed by nearly 50 years of experience supporting people with mental health problems and mental health illness right across the country.”

Ms Simpson has invited businesses to try out the courses, adding: “They are designed around you, so whether you are writing a new strategy, new policies or simply want to support staff to keep well at work we can work with you to develop what you need to reach your goal”.