FURNESS College in Barrow has had 14 of its staff members trained in mental health first aid.

The team will offer a point of contact at the college for staff and students who are experiencing mental health issues or emotional distress.

Sue Hannan, director of curriculum (young people’s learning) at the college, which has campuses at Channelside and Rating Lane, said: “To improve our focus on people’s mental health and wellbeing, we have launched a team of mental health first aiders.

“We know that some people, particularly in the 16 to 24 age group, are struggling in the light of the lockdown due to Covid-19.

“Everyone has experienced new challenges and, while some have grown more resilient, others may be feeling overwhelmed.

“We hope that by having a team of familiar faces within the college when students and staff are back on campus we can improve conversations and support each other with any concerns.

“We are not therapists but can give initial support and signpost to professional help, but we know that starting to open up and talk about mental health is the first step.”

Other staff have also now put their names forward to volunteer and a ‘network group’ has been established, with appropriate training and training ‘refreshers’ provided.

The college plans to grow the group and will be taking part in World Mental Health Day on October 10 by hosting an event to raise awareness of mental health.