HSBC Bank Malta has once again been awarded a Gold Certificate by The Richmond Foundation after upskilling 10 per cent of its employees, mainly line managers, as mental health first aiders. This is the second time that HSBC has been awarded this certification, after having become the first corporate entity in Malta to receive it in 2018.
In stark contrast to 2018, this year’s training was carried out in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. This not only meant that the course had to be conducted online but it also called for special focus on the specific mental health challenges arising from such an unprecedented situation.
Simon Vaughan Johnson, CEO of HSBC Malta, said: “HSBC has a longstanding commitment to the mental wellbeing of all its people. Having been the first corporate entity in Malta to receive the Richmond Foundation’s Gold Certificate in 2018, it was time to refresh the training of those who participated last time and upskill new colleagues. Of course, this new training could not have come at a more important time given the uncertainties and challenges which Covid-19 has created and which we are all adjusting to.”
“Richmond is honoured to be celebrating this milestone with HSBC, one of the most active companies which invests significantly in its employees’ wellbeing. This recertification in Mental Health First Aid means that HSBC employees across different levels are now better equipped in identifying emerging mental health issues amongst their colleagues, and effectively supporting them in seeking the appropriate help. Mental health awareness is a source of resilience, which is one characteristic which will see people through the pandemic in a sustainable manner commented Stephania Dimech Sant, CEO of Richmond Foundation Malta.
HSBC Malta has worked with the Richmond Foundation for almost two decades to ensure that all its employees have access to advice and professional assistance on managing mental health.