Representatives from a number of local pubs attended a Mental Health First Aid course hosted by Rosedale Training at the Corn Hall in Diss to help increase awareness of how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health.
The two-day course teaches a set of skills enabling people to support someone experiencing mental health issues. 12 of the places on the most recent course were funded by Beer Bikes and Bands, an annual charity event hosted by The Burston Crown, which also raises funds for young people’s mental health support groups run in South Norfolk.
Others in attendance included representatives from the Gissing Crown, Cock Inn in Diss, Ampersand Brewery in Diss and the Swan Hotel in Harleston.
Anne Beckett-Allen, Director of Rosedale Training said: “The idea came from an initial chat with Bev Kembery at The Burston Crown which has led to the aim of having Mental Health First Aiders in all the pubs in Diss and surrounding villages. Pubs can play a vital role in spotting someone who might visit them that may require some form of additional support but may never have considered it. Our course helps to start that conversation where appropriate and potentially save lives.”
Bev Kembery said: “This is the most important course I will ever do and I’m very grateful for the opportunity. Being able to spot the signs of mental ill health is so vital and it gives us at The Burston Crown many additional skills to enable us to support our valued customers if they need it.”
The Burston Crown will be hosting Beer Bikes and Bands 2022 on Sunday 1st May, raising funds to support young people’s mental health. They are still looking for more auction prizes and raffle items for the event. More information can be found on the Beer Bike and Bands event page on Facebook.
