Experiences from a MECC for Mental Health Lead Trainer

Dr Matt Bowen, Deputy Head of Mental Health and Learning Disability Department at the University of Chester describes his experience as a MECC for Mental Health Lead Trainer.   

The MECC for Mental Health approach uses routine interactions to have meaningful yet brief conversations with people to positively impact their mental health and wellbeing. In the North West, the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) and HEE have adapted the MECC for Mental Health programme for Practice Education Facilitators (PEFs), to fit the context of staff supporting healthcare students and newly qualified registrants in clinical settings. Hosting a Lead Trainer or Trainer in your organisation is an opportunity for organisations to demonstrate leadership in mental health promotion as an integral part of a person-centred care approach to workplace health and wellbeing. The University of Chester provides training for student nurses across all fields of nursing (Mental Health, Learning Disability, Child and Adult). Dr Matt Bowen shares his experience as a lead trainer.  

What made you decide to get involved? 

I was immediately drawn to the programme because I have supported public mental health initiatives both in the UK and internationally. I delivered the International Global Mental Health Assessment Tool in India, Uganda and Colombia and Mental Health First Aid training in the UK.  

How did you train to become a MECC for Mental Health trainer? 

The lead trainer training was delivered online to a small group. The trainers had been heavily involved in the development of the training and the roll-out of the programme and shared depth of experience on the materials and delivery. The training was lively environment and made us all discuss how we could best utilise the MECC for Mental Health in different contexts. It is all about being adaptable.  

Can you tell us about the training that you have delivered and the outcomes for participants? 

At the University of Chester, we are training all first year student nurses, across all fields of nursing. It is a one-day workshop, in person, in groups of 15-20 students. By the end of April 2023, we will have delivered the training to over 400 student nurses. The material has been adapted for nursing students and has helped them to see the relevance. It is invaluable for the students who often feel that they want to help but, in relation to mental health, lack some confidence about how they can take that first step. 

“We see MECC for Mental Health as an invaluable aspect of the training for all student nurses to help them to think about and develop skills to address their own mental wellbeing as well as others.” 

Why is MECC for Mental Health important? 

There is a need to support people around their mental wellbeing but most people are daunted and lack confidence about their ability to approach someone who they have concerns about their mental wellbeing. MECC for Mental Health is very well placed to support people to develop the skills and confidence to help address this gap. 

Find out more about this opportunity and the eligibility criteria for training grants or contact the HEE Nursing and Midwifery team.