Mental health is more important than ever, as recent data from the UK Government indicates nearly 1.94 million people were in contact with mental health services, with over 391,000 new referrals received and over 16,500 people detained in hospital by only the end of August 2024. The rapid increase and consistent high numbers produced surrounding mental health demonstrates a call to action for our community to support each other in every way we can.

At FAUN Zoeller (UK) Ltd (FZUK) we support the well-being of our employees with recent training being supplied on the other side of our business at FAUN Zoeller Fleet Services (FZFS) in Chorley, this is also supported by the fact we have three mental health first aiders at FZUK, one of which being our CEO, Richard Horton, who gave his thoughts on the importance of mental health and what mental well-being means to him.

“For me, mental wellness is about allowing people the headspace to think clearly and the support to handle life’s ups and downs. It’s about knowing you don’t have to do everything alone — by creating a culture where people feel safe to speak up, and support functions in place and accessible if needed. It’s so important, especially for me when leading a team of people. We’re all humans, not robots.”

This year’s theme is community, and we believe that checking in with each other, and making space for connection is one of the simplest but most powerful ways to support mental wellbeing. With this, not only do we just have the support of mental health first aiders at FZUK but also the encouragement for an open environment to work in for our team. One of the ways we have done this is by organising treats like an ice-cream truck to our office in Chorley, and who doesn’t like an ice cream in the sun.

We also support our community through local organisations such as, South & City College Birmingham. We recently attended and sponsored their 2025 Apprenticeship Awards evening, demonstrating our commitment to the young people at our local college. We have also demonstrated this by supplying food donations to a local food bank in Chorley for Easter. Ultimately, these examples demonstrate our core values of supporting our community inside and outside of work, whether this is through donations to foodbanks, sponsorship or looking out for our employees, we believe it is important to look after one another.

In today’s world there are many external factors that can affect someone’s mental health; such as work and relationships. These are just two of the many factors that can affect an individual’s well-being. No one knows how someone is truly feeling, so your help could be so vital to making their day. Sometimes all you need is someone there to talk to, whether that’s a simple compliment, a smile or conversation, or to just listen.

Mental health matters every day – not just this week. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, taking time for yourself, or learning how to spot the signs when someone’s struggling, every action counts. Be the one to make a positive impact.

If you or someone close to you is struggling, don’t hesitate to talk. You’re not alone. Resources like Mind and Samaritans (116 123) are always there to help.

Happy Mental Awareness Month!