Mind Matters

18/03/2026

In a world full of noise – notifications, opinions, rushed conversations – active listening with empathy is almost radical. It slows the pace. It centres the human being in front of us. And in mental health support, it becomes more than a communication technique; it becomes a lifeline.

This is why Mental Health First Aiders are taught to listen not just with their ears, but with their presence, their curiosity, and their compassion – with their hearts. It’s a skill that transforms conversations, builds trust, and helps people feel seen at the moments they need it most... https://mindmatterstraining.co.uk/active-listening-with-empathy-the-quiet-skill-that-saves-lives/

Image: A heart with ears to depict empathy. The heart features a face with blue eyes.

18/03/2026

Mental Health First Aid is an educational course which teaches people how to identify, understand and help a person who may be developing a mental health issue. In the same way as we learn physical first aid, Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to recognise those crucial warning signs of mental ill health, and to become a MHFAider®

Our Doncaster course is taking place in-person on 21st & 22nd May 2026. Delegate places are £250+VAT

https://lnkd.in/eUbBvWgs

18/03/2026

This workshop is designed for anyone that wants to become a Neurodiversity Champion - someone who wants to raise awareness and understanding about neurodiversity in the workplace, to change the way that neurodivergence is viewed, and to champion neuroinclusive practices and cultural change so that every one THRIVES.

The Neurodiversity in the Workplace Champion Workshop will take place online Friday 20th March 9.30-4.30pm GMT. Delegate places are £200+VAT Book your place https://lnkd.in/ecZpX5Ug

16/03/2026

Safeguarding leads are the unsung guardians of our schools. Every day, they carry the immense responsibility of protecting children from harm, listening to disclosures that can be deeply distressing, and making critical decisions under pressure. Their role is vital — but it is also emotionally demanding, isolating, and often overlooked when it comes to wellbeing.

The Hidden Weight of Safeguarding

• Emotional toll: Safeguarding leads are exposed to some of the most challenging aspects of school life — neglect, abuse, and trauma. Without proper support, this can lead to compassion fatigue and burnout.
• Constant vigilance: They must remain alert and responsive at all times, which can create a heightened state of stress and anxiety.
• Isolation in responsibility: While safeguarding is everyone’s duty, the lead often feels the burden of accountability rests squarely on their shoulders.

Why Wellbeing Support Matters

• Sustaining effectiveness: A safeguarding lead who is supported emotionally and mentally is better equipped to make sound judgments and act decisively.
• Role modelling: When leaders prioritise wellbeing, it sets a powerful example for staff and students alike.
• Retention and resilience: Supporting safeguarding leads reduces turnover, builds resilience, and ensures continuity in this critical role.

The Call to Action for School Leaders

Investing in the wellbeing of safeguarding leads is not a luxury — it is a necessity. By providing structured wellbeing support, schools can:

• Protect the protectors, ensuring they remain strong for the children who rely on them.
• Create a culture where safeguarding is sustainable, not overwhelming.
• Strengthen the whole school community by recognising that caring for staff is inseparable from caring for pupils.

Our workshop is designed specifically for school leaders who want to prioritise the wellbeing of safeguarding leads. Together, we will explore practical strategies, share best practice, and build a framework of support that empowers safeguarding leads to thrive in their role — not just survive it.

Because safeguarding is about protecting children, but it starts with protecting the adults who carry that responsibility.

Contact us to book your workshop https://mindmatterstraining.co.uk/get-in-touch/

15/03/2026

I love training Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders®) and being a member of the Association of MHFAiders!

I am proud to be part of a growing community that is redefining mental health in the workplace.

Mental Health First Aid Training is accompanied by a community of fellow Instructor Members and MHFAiders®, supported through the dedicated MHFAider Support App®.

With the app, you can access ongoing support, resources, and any information you need, all included in the course.

Be part of the inclusive community and change your workplace for the better today.

Please contact us for further details about the course https://mindmatterstraining.co.uk/get-in-touch/

I love training Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders®). Why I hear you ask? I am proud to be part of a growing community that is redefining mental health in the workplace! Mental Health First Aid Training is accompanied by a community of fellow Instructor Members and MHFAiders®, supported through...

13/03/2026

Mind Matters to exhibit at the 2025 Health & Wellbeing at Work Conference https://mindmatterstraining.co.uk/mind-matters-to-exhibit-at-the-health-wellbeing-at-work-conference-2025/

Mind Matters will be exhibiting at the Health & Wellbeing at Work Conference at the Birmingham NEC on 10–11 March 2025, showcasing its leading-edge training and consultancy across mental health, neurodiversity, su***de prevention, and workplace wellbeing. As one of the UK’s most established prov...

13/03/2026

I’m incredibly proud to see my daughter featured in Autism Eye discussing the proposed changes to SEND reforms.

For families like ours, SEND provision isn’t just policy - it’s daily life. It shapes how our children learn, grow, and feel supported in the world around them. Seeing her voice included in this conversation means a great deal to me, and I hope it helps highlight the real experiences of families navigating the system.

The discussion around SEND reform is such an important one. My hope is that these changes genuinely improve support, accessibility, and outcomes for children and young people who need it most.

Thank you to Autism Eye for giving families a platform to share their perspective. Their voices matter.

Ed Miliband

12/03/2026

What a fantastic day at the The National Autistic Society Professionals’ Conference!

Today was a powerful reminder of why collaboration, understanding and evidence-based practice matter so much in improving the lives of autistic people.

The plenary from Chris Packham and Luke Beardon set the tone brilliantly – insightful, emotive, thought-provoking and a strong call for continued advocacy and authentic autistic voices at the centre of conversations.

I also had the privilege of hearing from an inspiring range of speakers including Dr Dr Khurram Saadiq Kerry Murphy Connor Ward and Dr Chris Papadopoulos. Each session offered valuable perspectives, practical insights and real passion for creating more inclusive systems and support.

Events like this reinforce how important it is for Autistic people and professionals across sectors to come together, share knowledge and keep pushing for meaningful change.

A huge thank you to the National Autistic Society for organising such a well-run and energising conference. I’m leaving with lots of ideas, reflections and renewed motivation to keep learning and improving practice.

12/03/2026

Powerful words from Dr Khurram Saadiq at the The National Autistic Society Annual Professionals’ Conference this morning!