Allison Homes is proud to recognise the first ever national Mental Health First Aider Day (12th November), celebrating the colleagues who champion positive mental health and wellbeing across the business. 

With a strong commitment to fostering a supportive workplace, Allison Homes has built a network of 14 trained Mental Health First Aiders across all regions, each available to offer guidance, listen without judgement and signpost resources to colleagues who may need extra support. 

The Mental Health First Aiders are part of Allison Homes' commitment to creating a supportive and open culture where wellbeing is prioritised every day, whether on site or in an office. 

Each of the First Aiders have completed Mental Health Awareness or Adult Mental Health First Aid training, equipping them to spot early signs of stress or anxiety, start supportive conversations and signpost to specialist services where appropriate.  

Among them are Senior Site Manager Russell Patrick and Customer Experience Manager Paula Merrill, who both shared their thoughts on the importance of supporting mental health in the workplace. 

Russell, who has been part of the construction industry for more than 20 years and joined Allison Homes in 2021, said: “It's extremely important to have mental health first aid in the construction environment due to the high pressures that come with the nature of the work. Construction has historically had a macho culture, and it's vital we create systems that give people a safe space to express their feelings. 

“Being a Mental Health First Aider helps me recognise wellbeing concerns not just in others, but in myself too. It's about being available to listen, provide information and make sure support is accessible for everyone, to help recognise potential issues early.”  

Paula, who has been with Allison Homes since 2019, highlighted that construction workers are among the professions with the highest suicide rates, often due to high pressure, long hours, isolated working and financial strain.  

She explained that since becoming a Mental Health First Aider, she has continued to make herself available to anyone who might need support, adding: “I think it is incredibly important for people to feel open to express their feelings in the workplace, but I also understand why they may find this hard. Offering confidential helplines or avenues for people to share any problems they have is one of the key ways we can help.” 

Paula's training includes a Care Certificate and a qualification in Understanding Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Advocacy in the Workplace. Through this, she has learned how to recognise and support people showing signs of stress or mental ill health, talk and listen without judgment, encourage individuals to seek further support, and assess risks to their safety. 

Allison Homes also encourages everyday wellbeing through initiatives such as Walking Wednesdays, on site and office communications, and access to external support from The Lighthouse Charity and the Aviva Smart Health Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). 

Zoe Evans, Head of HR at Allison Homes, said: “Creating a workplace where people feel safe, supported and able to talk openly about mental health is fundamental to who we are. Our Mental Health First Aiders play a vital role in that culture, offering a compassionate first point of contact and helping colleagues access the right support early. I'm incredibly grateful to every First Aider for the time, care and dedication they give to others.” 

To find out more Allison Homes, visit https://allison-homes.co.uk/.  

To learn more about Mental Health First Aider Day, visit mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/campaigns/mhfaider-day-2025. 

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Allison Homes is a forward-thinking housebuilder with an ambitious five-year plan to double in size. With regional offices in Peterborough (Cambridgeshire), Norwich (Norfolk), Tiverton (Devon) and Castle Donington (Leicestershire), the company is rapidly expanding its presence across the East Midlands, East of England and South West.

Guided by its vision to be known as “The Homebuilder You Can Trust”, Allison Homes is recognised for its fresh approach, strong partnerships and commitment to delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes.

In 2025 it has achieved a five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation (HBF), as 94.9 per cent of customers surveyed would recommend the company to family and friends. Allison Homes also received the Gold Award from In-house Research Ltd, highlighting its delivery of outstanding customer service and reinforcing its reputation for excellence.

To find out more about Allison Homes, visit https://allison-homes.co.uk/.

For further information or for PR enquiries about Allison Homes, please contact Molly Fawcett on 0116 247 1777 or molly@unsworthsugden.co.uk.